How To Use CPT Code 27222

CPT 27222 describes the closed treatment of a fracture of the acetabulum, or hip socket, with or without manipulation and with or without skeletal traction. 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 27222?

CPT 27222 can be used to describe the closed treatment of a fracture of the acetabulum, or hip socket. This procedure may involve manipulation of the fractured bone and may or may not include the use of skeletal traction. The provider performs this treatment to realign the bones and promote proper healing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27222 is: ‘Closed treatment of acetabulum (hip socket) fracture(s); with manipulation, with or without skeletal traction.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the provider adjusts the fractured fragment by exerting a pushing or pulling force on the pelvic bone to reduce the fracture or realign the bones.
2. They may also apply skin traction, such as Buck’s traction, using light weights and counterweights attached to the skin with adhesive tape or bandages. This technique helps bring together the fractured bone.
3. In some cases, the provider may use skeletal traction, which involves stabilizing and reinforcing the fracture fragments using a tibial pin or other implant.
4. Skeletal traction uses force via a pin, wire, screw, or clamp that penetrates the bone, along with ropes and heavier weights attached to the implant. This type of traction may last for up to twelve weeks.
5. After the procedure, the provider may place the patient’s leg in a brace or splint for a period of about four to six weeks to support the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27222 is performed on patients with a fracture of the acetabulum, or hip socket. The procedure may involve manipulation of the fractured bone and may or may not include the use of skeletal traction. The provider determines the need for this treatment based on the patient’s condition and the severity of the fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 27222

CPT code 27222 should be used when the provider performs a closed treatment of a fracture of the acetabulum, or hip socket, with or without manipulation and with or without skeletal traction. It is important to accurately document the specific details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27222, the provider must document the following information:

• Diagnosis of a fracture of the acetabulum
• Details of the closed treatment procedure, including manipulation and/or skeletal traction
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or techniques used during the treatment
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27222, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for closed treatment of a fracture of the acetabulum with or without manipulation and with or without skeletal traction. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or requirements from insurance providers or government payers.

8. Historical information

CPT 27222 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was initially removed from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list in 2017 but was later added back to the list in 2022.

9. Examples

1. A patient sustains a fracture of the acetabulum and undergoes closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction to realign the bones.
2. A provider performs closed treatment of a hip socket fracture without manipulation, using only skeletal traction to stabilize and reinforce the fracture fragments.
3. After a thorough assessment, the provider determines that a patient’s acetabulum fracture requires closed treatment with manipulation and without skeletal traction.
4. A patient with a complex acetabulum fracture undergoes closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction, followed by placement in a brace for further support.
5. A provider performs closed treatment of a hip socket fracture with manipulation but without the use of skeletal traction, opting for other techniques to stabilize the fracture fragments.
6. Following a fall, a patient presents with a fractured acetabulum and undergoes closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction to promote proper healing.
7. A provider performs closed treatment of a hip socket fracture with manipulation and skeletal traction, using a tibial pin to stabilize the fracture fragments.
8. After careful evaluation, the provider determines that a patient’s acetabulum fracture can be effectively treated with closed treatment without manipulation or skeletal traction.
9. A patient with a severe acetabulum fracture undergoes closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction, followed by a period of immobilization in a brace.
10. A provider performs closed treatment of a hip socket fracture with manipulation and skeletal traction, using a combination of techniques to achieve proper alignment and stability.