How To Use CPT Code 27246

CPT 27246 describes the closed treatment of a greater trochanteric fracture in the upper end of the femur without manipulation. 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 27246?

CPT 27246 can be used to describe the closed treatment of a greater trochanteric fracture in the upper end of the femur without manipulation. This code is used when the provider stabilizes the fracture and advises the patient on ways to manage the pain. Treatment may involve a period of bed rest, skin traction, or a spica cast, depending on the severity of the fracture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27246 is: ‘Closed treatment of greater trochanteric fracture, without manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider examines the patient and confirms the fracture with x-rays.
2. He stabilizes the fracture and advises the patient on ways to manage the pain.
3. Treatment may involve a period of bed rest, skin traction, or a spica cast.
4. If a spica cast is used, it remains for a period of four to six weeks.
5. X-ray examinations may be performed to confirm the reduction of the fracture.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 27246 services are those with a greater trochanteric fracture in the upper end of the femur. The treatment is performed without manipulation of the fractured bone. The provider may use a spica cast, skin traction, or advise bed rest depending on the severity of the fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 27246

CPT code 27246 should be used when the provider performs a closed treatment of a greater trochanteric fracture in the upper end of the femur without manipulation. This code should not be used if the treatment involves an open procedure or the use of internal fixation implants.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27246, the provider must document the following information:

• Confirmation of the greater trochanteric fracture through x-rays
• Details of the treatment provided, such as the use of a spica cast, skin traction, or bed rest
• Duration of the treatment, including the period the spica cast remains if used
• Confirmation of the reduction of the fracture through x-ray examinations

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27246, ensure that the treatment performed is a closed treatment of a greater trochanteric fracture without manipulation. This code should not be reported if an open treatment or the use of internal fixation implants is performed. It is important to use the appropriate code based on the specific procedure performed.

8. Historical information

CPT 27246 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a greater trochanteric fracture in the upper end of the femur receives closed treatment without manipulation. The provider stabilizes the fracture and advises the patient on pain management techniques.
2. A patient with a nondisplaced greater trochanteric fracture undergoes closed treatment with the use of a spica cast. The cast remains for four to six weeks to ensure proper healing.
3. A patient with a greater trochanteric fracture receives closed treatment with skin traction to aid in the healing process.
4. A patient with a stable greater trochanteric fracture is advised to undergo a period of bed rest to allow the fracture to heal without manipulation.
5. A patient with a greater trochanteric fracture undergoes closed treatment without manipulation. The provider performs regular x-ray examinations to monitor the reduction of the fracture.
6. A patient with a greater trochanteric fracture receives closed treatment with the use of a spica cast. The provider ensures the proper alignment of the fracture through x-ray examinations.
7. A patient with a greater trochanteric fracture undergoes closed treatment with skin traction. The provider advises the patient on pain management techniques during the healing process.
8. A patient with a nondisplaced greater trochanteric fracture receives closed treatment without manipulation. The provider performs regular x-ray examinations to confirm the reduction of the fracture.
9. A patient with a greater trochanteric fracture undergoes closed treatment with the use of a spica cast. The provider advises the patient on weight-bearing limitations during the healing process.
10. A patient with a stable greater trochanteric fracture receives closed treatment without manipulation. The provider monitors the progress of the fracture through regular x-ray examinations.