How To Use CPT Code 27000

CPT 27000 describes the percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip, which is a separate procedure used to correct a deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27000?

CPT 27000 is a code used to describe a percutaneous tenotomy procedure performed on the adductor muscles of the hip. This procedure involves making a small incision in the skin of the inner thigh to access and divide the tendons of the adductor muscles. The purpose of this procedure is to correct a deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle, allowing the joint to straighten and function properly.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27000 is: ‘Tenotomy, adductor of hip, percutaneous (separate procedure).’ This code specifically refers to the percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip, indicating that it is a separate procedure from other related procedures.

3. Procedure

1. To perform a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip, the provider begins by making a small incision in the skin of the inner thigh over the abductor muscle.
2. Next, the provider carefully dissects down to the tendons of the adductor muscles.
3. Using a small cutting tool, the provider incises the tendons to lengthen them, allowing the muscles to return to their normal length.
4. After ensuring that all bleeding at the surgical site has been stopped, the provider closes the wound by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27000 is used when a patient presents with a deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle of the hip. This procedure is performed to correct the deformity and improve the function of the joint. It is important to note that CPT 27000 is a separate procedure and should not be reported with other related procedures performed through the same skin incision.

5. When to use CPT code 27000

CPT code 27000 should be used when a provider performs a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip as a separate procedure. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed through a separate incision and not in conjunction with other related procedures. If the provider performs a tenotomy of the adductor muscle through the same incision as another procedure, a different code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27000, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle
• Description of the procedure performed, including the specific muscles involved and the method of tenotomy
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the incision made and the closure method used
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27000, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and not in conjunction with other related procedures through the same incision. If the provider performs CPT 27000 with an unrelated procedure, modifier 59, Distinct Procedural Service, may need to be appended to CPT 27000 to indicate that it is a distinct and separate procedure. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 27000 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip to correct a deformity in a patient with a tight adductor muscle.
2. A patient presents with a hip deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle, and the provider performs a separate percutaneous tenotomy procedure to correct the issue.
3. A provider performs a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip as a separate procedure in a patient with a congenital hip deformity.
4. A patient undergoes a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip to correct a deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle, performed as a separate procedure by the provider.
5. A provider performs a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip in a patient with a tight adductor muscle, correcting the deformity through a separate incision.
6. A patient with a hip deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle undergoes a percutaneous tenotomy procedure performed as a separate procedure by the provider.
7. A provider performs a separate percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip to correct a deformity in a patient with a tight adductor muscle.
8. A patient presents with a hip deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle, and the provider performs a percutaneous tenotomy procedure as a separate procedure to correct the issue.
9. A provider performs a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip as a separate procedure in a patient with a congenital hip deformity.
10. A patient undergoes a percutaneous tenotomy of the adductor muscles of the hip as a separate procedure to correct a deformity caused by a tight adductor muscle, performed by the provider.