How To Use CPT Code 27217

CPT 27217 describes the open treatment of an anterior pelvic bone fracture and/or dislocation for fracture patterns that disrupt the pelvic ring on one side of the pelvis. 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 27217?

CPT 27217 can be used to describe the open treatment of an anterior pelvic bone fracture and/or dislocation on one side of the pelvis. This code is used when the provider performs a surgical procedure to realign and stabilize the fracture using internal fixation, such as plates and screws.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27217 is: ‘Open treatment of anterior pelvic bone fracture and/or dislocation for fracture patterns that disrupt the pelvic ring, unilateral, includes internal fixation, when performed (includes pubic symphysis and/or ipsilateral superior/inferior rami).’ If the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision over the site of the pelvic injury and dissects down to expose the pelvis.
2. He manually adjusts the fractured or dislocated bone to realign it.
3. The provider may use internal fixation implants, such as plates and screws, to stabilize the fracture.
4. One or more drains may be placed, and the wound is closed by suturing the skin layers together.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27217 is used for patients with anterior pelvic bone fractures and/or dislocations that disrupt the pelvic ring on one side of the pelvis. The procedure is performed by a provider using internal fixation, such as plates and screws, to stabilize the fracture. If the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code.

5. When to use CPT code 27217

CPT code 27217 should be used when the provider performs an open treatment of an anterior pelvic bone fracture and/or dislocation on one side of the pelvis. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27217, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an anterior pelvic bone fracture and/or dislocation
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of internal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27217, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure is performed bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code. It is important to follow the appropriate coding and billing guidelines to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 27217 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There was a code change on January 1, 2009, which updated the description to include the specific fracture patterns and structures involved in the procedure.

9. Examples

1. A patient sustains an anterior pelvic bone fracture due to a car accident. The provider performs an open treatment of the fracture, realigning the bone and using internal fixation to stabilize it.
2. A patient presents with a dislocated anterior pelvic bone following a fall. The provider performs an open reduction of the dislocation, realigning the bone and using internal fixation to stabilize it.
3. A patient fractures their anterior pelvic bone during a sports injury. The provider performs an open treatment of the fracture, using internal fixation to stabilize the bone and promote proper healing.
4. A patient experiences a dislocated anterior pelvic bone after a workplace accident. The provider performs an open reduction of the dislocation, realigning the bone and using internal fixation to stabilize it.
5. A patient sustains an anterior pelvic bone fracture during a fall from a height. The provider performs an open treatment of the fracture, using internal fixation to stabilize the bone and facilitate healing.
6. A patient presents with a dislocated anterior pelvic bone following a motorcycle accident. The provider performs an open reduction of the dislocation, realigning the bone and using internal fixation to stabilize it.
7. A patient fractures their anterior pelvic bone during a skiing accident. The provider performs an open treatment of the fracture, using internal fixation to stabilize the bone and promote proper healing.
8. A patient experiences a dislocated anterior pelvic bone after a fall down the stairs. The provider performs an open reduction of the dislocation, realigning the bone and using internal fixation to stabilize it.
9. A patient sustains an anterior pelvic bone fracture during a sports collision. The provider performs an open treatment of the fracture, using internal fixation to stabilize the bone and facilitate healing.