TN 3 (11-22)

HI 00610.180 Surgical Dressings, and Splints, Casts, and Other Devices Used for Reduction of Fractures and Dislocations

Surgical dressings include therapeutic and protective covering for lesions either on the skin or opening to the skin required as the result of a surgical procedure performed by a physician. Surgical dressings are usually applied first by a physician and are covered as incident to a physician's professional service (see HI 00610.020.). However, dressings may be reapplied by others including the patient or a member of the patient's family. When surgical dressings are obtained by the patient on a physician's order from a supplier, e.g., a drugstore, the surgical dressing is covered. Dressings required for purposes other than a surgical lesion, e.g., bedsores, are not covered. Prior to the 1972 Amendments, a colostomy bag and necessary accoutrements required for its attachment were covered as a surgical dressing; irrigation equipment and supplies used in treating a colostomy condition were not covered under this section. On and after October 30, 1972 colostomy bags and equipment are considered prosthetic devices.

Splints, casts, etc., include dental splints.