How To Use CPT Code 27235

CPT 27235 describes the percutaneous skeletal fixation of a femoral fracture in the proximal end or neck of the femur. 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 27235?

CPT 27235 is used to describe the percutaneous skeletal fixation of a femoral fracture in the proximal end or neck of the femur. This procedure involves the use of screws and pins inserted through the skin to treat the fracture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27235 is: ‘Percutaneous skeletal fixation of femoral fracture, proximal end, neck.’

3. Procedure

1. In this procedure, the provider treats a femur neck fracture, which is a fracture in the upper end of the femur.
2. The provider first assesses the fracture using an X-ray to determine the extent of the injury.
3. If necessary, the provider manually adjusts the bones by pushing or pulling them to bring them back into their normal alignment.
4. A small incision is made in the skin over the fracture site.
5. The provider then inserts pins and screws through the incision and into the bone to hold the reduced fracture in place.
6. The incision is closed with sutures, and the patient’s leg is placed in a brace or splint for four to six weeks to aid in the healing process.
7. Follow-up X-rays may be performed to confirm the reduction of the fracture.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27235 is performed on patients with a femur neck fracture, which is a fracture in the upper end of the femur. The procedure is typically done when the fracture can be treated with percutaneous skeletal fixation, using screws and pins inserted through the skin. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 27235

CPT code 27235 should be used when a provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation of a femoral fracture in the proximal end or neck of the femur. This code should not be used for other types of femoral fractures or for fractures in different locations.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27235, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a femur neck fracture
• Details of the procedure, including the use of screws and pins for percutaneous skeletal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Incision size and closure method
• Type of brace or splint used for immobilization
• Follow-up plan, including any scheduled X-rays

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27235, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and provide the necessary supporting documentation. CPT code 27235 should not be reported with other codes that describe different procedures or locations of fractures.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27235 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 percutaneous skeletal fixation of a femoral fracture in the proximal end or neck using screws and pins.
2. A patient with a femur neck fracture undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation with the insertion of screws and pins through the skin.
3. A provider reduces a femur neck fracture and performs percutaneous skeletal fixation using screws and pins.
4. A patient with a proximal femur fracture undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation with the insertion of screws and pins.
5. A provider treats a fracture in the upper end of the femur by performing percutaneous skeletal fixation with screws and pins.
6. A patient with a femoral neck fracture receives percutaneous skeletal fixation using screws and pins.
7. A provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation on a patient with a fracture in the proximal end or neck of the femur.
8. A patient undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation for a femur neck fracture using screws and pins.
9. A provider uses percutaneous skeletal fixation with screws and pins to treat a fracture in the upper end of the femur.
10. A patient with a proximal femur fracture receives percutaneous skeletal fixation with the insertion of screws and pins.