How To Use CPT Code 27244

CPT 27244 describes the treatment of intertrochanteric, peritrochanteric, or subtrochanteric femoral fracture using a plate/screw type implant, with or without cerclage. 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 27244?

CPT 27244 is used to describe the treatment of intertrochanteric, peritrochanteric, or subtrochanteric femoral fracture. The procedure involves the use of a plate/screw type implant to stabilize the fractured bone. Cerclage, a metal band or wire loop, may also be used to hold the fracture fragments in place. This code is used when the provider performs an open treatment of the fracture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27244 is: ‘Treatment of intertrochanteric, peritrochanteric, or subtrochanteric femoral fracture; with plate/screw type implant, with or without cerclage.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision over the upper end of the femur bone.
2. They dissect through the subcutaneous tissue, protecting the nerves and vessels.
3. The muscles are retracted to expose the fracture.
4. The provider adjusts the bone to reduce the fractured fragments or realign dislocated bones.
5. A plate/screw type implant is used to stabilize the fracture fragments.
6. Cerclage may be used to secure the fracture fragments.
7. The wound is closed by suturing the skin layers together.
8. A brace or splint is applied to the patient’s leg for four to six weeks.
9. An X-ray examination may be performed to confirm the reduction of the fracture.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27244 is used for the treatment of intertrochanteric, peritrochanteric, or subtrochanteric femoral fractures. The procedure involves the use of a plate/screw type implant, with or without cerclage, to stabilize the fractured bone. The patient must have a documented diagnosis of the specific type of femoral fracture, and the procedure must be performed by a qualified provider.

5. When to use CPT code 27244

CPT code 27244 should be used when the provider performs an open treatment of intertrochanteric, peritrochanteric, or subtrochanteric femoral fracture using a plate/screw type implant, with or without cerclage. This code should not be used for other types of femoral fractures or treatment methods.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27244, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of intertrochanteric, peritrochanteric, or subtrochanteric femoral fracture
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of a plate/screw type implant and cerclage if applicable
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or services provided during the same encounter
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27244, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of a plate/screw type implant and cerclage, if applicable, must be documented. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if required. CPT code 27244 should not be reported with other codes that describe different types of femoral fractures or treatment methods.

8. Historical information

CPT 27244 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been several historical changes to the code, including updates to the code description and its inclusion or exclusion from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs an open treatment of an intertrochanteric femoral fracture using a plate/screw type implant and cerclage.
2. A patient presents with a peritrochanteric femoral fracture, and the provider uses a plate/screw type implant to stabilize the fracture.
3. A subtrochanteric femoral fracture is treated with a plate/screw type implant and cerclage by the provider.
4. The provider performs an open treatment of an intertrochanteric femoral fracture using a plate/screw type implant without cerclage.