How To Use CPT Code 27137

CPT 27137 describes the procedure for the revision of total hip arthroplasty, specifically the acetabular component. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 27137, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27137?

CPT 27137 is used to describe the revision of total hip arthroplasty, specifically focusing on the acetabular component. This procedure involves the removal of a previously implanted artificial hip joint or prosthesis and replacing it with a new prosthesis. The provider may or may not use a graft during the revision surgery.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27137 is: ‘Revision of total hip arthroplasty; acetabular component only, with or without autograft or allograft.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the skin of the hip joint and dissecting through the subcutaneous tissue to reach the hip joint capsule.
2. They identify and protect the sciatic nerve and release the soft tissue surrounding the joint.
3. The provider manually dislocates the hip joint and separates the femoral component, moving the head of the femur from the acetabulum.
4. Next, they remove the acetabular component of the prosthesis and clean out any excess cement in the socket using a curette.
5. A new acetabular component is then placed and secured with bone cement and a graft, if necessary.
6. If required, the provider reunites the two components using a graft and cement, restoring the normal alignment of the hip joint.
7. The wound is irrigated with antibiotic solution and closed in layers, with the option to leave a drain in place.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27137 is performed when there is a need to remove a loose or damaged prosthesis in the hip joint. The procedure is indicated for patients who require revision arthroplasty of the acetabular component. The provider may use an autograft or allograft during the surgery, depending on the patient’s specific circumstances.

5. When to use CPT code 27137

CPT code 27137 should be used when the provider performs a revision of total hip arthroplasty, specifically focusing on the acetabular component. It is important to note that this code is not appropriate for cases involving the revision of both the femoral and acetabular components. In such cases, a different CPT code, such as 27134, should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27137, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for revision arthroplasty of the acetabular component
• Details of the procedure performed, including any use of autograft or allograft
• Date of the surgery
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the surgery
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27137, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description. It is important to accurately document the use of autograft or allograft, if applicable. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines provided by insurance payers or Medicare. It is also important to note that CPT code 27137 should not be reported with other codes for revision arthroplasty involving both the femoral and acetabular components.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27137 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. Over the years, there have been changes in its status, including being added and removed from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare. It is important to stay updated with any changes or updates related to this code.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes revision of total hip arthroplasty, specifically the acetabular component, due to a loose prosthesis.
2. A provider performs a revision surgery on a patient’s hip joint, replacing the acetabular component with a new prosthesis and using an autograft for additional support.
3. During a revision arthroplasty procedure, the provider removes the damaged acetabular component and replaces it with a new one, without the need for an autograft or allograft.
4. A patient with a history of hip arthroplasty undergoes a revision surgery to address a dislocated acetabular component.
5. A provider performs a revision of total hip arthroplasty, focusing on the acetabular component, to address a recurrent infection in the joint.
6. Another example of a case where CPT code 27137 would be appropriate. Make sure to provide original examples without using ‘CPT 27137’ or ‘CPT code 27137’ in the text of an example.
7. Another example of a case where CPT code 27137 would be appropriate. Make sure to provide original examples without using ‘CPT 27137’ or ‘CPT code 27137’ in the text of an example.
8. Another example of a case where CPT code 27137 would be appropriate. Make sure to provide original examples without using ‘CPT 27137’ or ‘CPT code 27137’ in the text of an example.