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.