Strapping; thorax
Audit Defense & Denial Intelligence
Research-based denial patterns from OrbDoc Bill Analyzer
1. Strapping technique not documented or supplies bundled with E&M
Occasional29200 (strapping of thorax) requires documented strapping/taping technique with specific indication for rib support. Denied when billed same day as E&M without modifier -25, when technique shows simple elastic bandage (bundled), or when clinical indication doesn't support thoracic strapping. Rib fractures most common indication.
Common Causes
- • Billed with E&M 99213 same day without modifier -25 - strapping bundled into E&M
- • Documentation shows 'ace wrap applied' - elastic bandage supply not separately billable
- • Strapping technique not specified - need rigid tape, not elastic
Resolution Strategy
Document specific strapping technique: 'Rib fractures 7th and 8th ribs right lateral, confirmed on chest X-ray. Rigid strapping applied to thorax for rib stabilization and pain reduction. Elastikon tape applied circumferentially around chest in overlapping layers, providing firm but not restrictive support. Patient instructed on deep breathing exercises and pain control.' If same day as E&M, add modifier -25 to E&M if separately identifiable service. If only elastic wrap, not separately billable. Success rate low for appeals without documented rigid technique.
Relative Value Units (RVUs)
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Clinical Information
When to Use
For therapeutic strapping of thoracic area, typically for rib fractures, muscle strains, or chest wall stabilization
Common Scenarios
Documentation Requirements
- Thoracic condition being treated
- Strapping technique used
- Width and number of straps applied
- Medical necessity documented
- Patient instructions for self-removal/reapplication
Coding Guidelines
Common Modifiers
Bundling Rules
- Includes supplies and application
- Does not include wound care
- May be done in office setting
Exclusions
- Casting uses different codes
- Complex reconstruction not included
- Requires separate surgical codes if needed
Coding Notes
Clinical scenarios
- Thoracic condition being treated
- Strapping technique used
- Width and number of straps applied
- Thoracic condition being treated
- Strapping technique used
- Width and number of straps applied
- Thoracic condition being treated
- Strapping technique used
- Width and number of straps applied
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Code Details
Medicare Pricing
PFSRVU Breakdown
OPPS Details
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Ask a QuestionFrequently Asked Questions
CPT 29200 is the billing code for "Strapping; thorax". For therapeutic strapping of thoracic area, typically for rib fractures, muscle strains, or chest wall stabilization
Medicare pays approximately $30.41 for CPT 29200 (national average). Actual payment varies by geographic location due to GPCI adjustments. Hospital and commercial insurance rates are typically 2-4x higher than Medicare rates.
CPT 29200 has a total RVU of 1.45, broken down as: Work RVU 0.65, Practice Expense RVU 0.73, and Malpractice RVU 0.07. RVUs (Relative Value Units) determine Medicare reimbursement rates.
The most common denial reason for CPT 29200 is "Strapping technique not documented or supplies bundled with E&M". 29200 (strapping of thorax) requires documented strapping/taping technique with specific indication for rib support. Denied when billed same day as E&M without modifier -25, when technique shows simple elastic bandage (bundled), or when clinical indication doesn't support thoracic strapping. Rib fractures most common indication. Common causes include: Billed with E&M 99213 same day without modifier -25 - strapping bundled into E&M; Documentation shows 'ace wrap applied' - elastic bandage supply not separately billable. Appeal success rate is approximately 10-30%.
Key documentation requirements for CPT 29200 include: Thoracic condition being treated; Strapping technique used; Width and number of straps applied; Medical necessity documented. Missing or incomplete documentation is a leading cause of claim denials for this code.
Bundling considerations for CPT 29200: Includes supplies and application. Does not include wound care Use an NCCI bundling checker to verify specific code combinations before billing.
Common modifiers for CPT 29200 include: 59 (Distinct procedural service if applicable), 76 (Repeat procedure by same physician). Modifiers indicate special circumstances and can affect reimbursement or prevent claim denials.
The typical time requirement for CPT 29200 is 10-15 minutes typical procedure time. Time-based codes require documentation of the actual time spent providing the service.