29085 application cast hand & lower forearm
Also known as: forearm cast, wrist to hand cast, short forearm cast
Application of a plaster cast encompassing the hand and lower forearm for immobilization, typically used for wrist and forearm injuries.
In Plain Language
hand and forearm cast; wrist cast
Clinical Context
Used for distal radius and ulna fractures, wrist sprains, and post-operative wrist stabilization.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.85 |
| Total RVU | 0.85 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.85, this code ranks in the 3rd percentile among Surgery codes — 9.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29085?
CPT 29085 (application cast hand & lower forearm) is a Surgery code. Application of a plaster cast encompassing the hand and lower forearm for immobilization, typically used for wrist and forearm injuries.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29085?
The work RVU for CPT 29085 is 0.85. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Emergency Medicine.
When is CPT 29085 used?
Used for distal radius and ulna fractures, wrist sprains, and post-operative wrist stabilization.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.