How To Use CPT Code 27253

CPT 27253 describes the open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation. 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 27253?

CPT 27253 is used to describe the open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without the use of internal fixation implants. This code is used when a provider performs a surgical procedure to reduce a dislocated hip joint, without the need for additional hardware such as pins, wires, or screws.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27253 is: ‘Open treatment of hip dislocation, traumatic, without internal fixation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision over the dislocated hip joint.
2. They carefully dissect through the subcutaneous tissue, ensuring the protection of nerves and vessels.
3. The muscles are retracted to expose the hip joint adequately.
4. The provider then manipulates the bones to reduce the dislocation, without disturbing the cartilage that covers the articular surfaces.
5. The wound is closed by suturing the layers of the skin together.
6. A brace or splint may be applied to immobilize the leg for a period of four to six weeks.
7. An X-ray examination may be performed to confirm the successful reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27253 is used when a patient presents with a traumatic hip joint dislocation that requires open treatment without the use of internal fixation. This code is appropriate when the provider performs the procedure without the need for additional hardware to stabilize the joint.

5. When to use CPT code 27253

CPT code 27253 should be used when a provider performs an open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation. It is important to ensure that the procedure does not involve the use of any implants or hardware to stabilize the joint.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27253, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of hip joint dislocation
• Description of the procedure performed, including the absence of internal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Details of any additional procedures or examinations performed, such as X-rays
• Any post-procedure instructions or recommendations
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27253, ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria for open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation. It is important to accurately document the absence of any implants or hardware used during the procedure. Additionally, follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 27253 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was initially classified as an Inpatient Only (IPO) procedure in 2017, but was later removed from the IPO list in 2021. However, as of 2022, it has been added back to the IPO list.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs an open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation for a patient who sustained a traumatic injury.
2. During the procedure, the provider reduces the dislocated hip joint using manual manipulation and closes the incision without the use of any implants.
3. Another provider performs an open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation for a patient involved in a car accident.
4. The provider carefully repositions the dislocated hip joint and ensures proper alignment without the need for additional hardware.
5. A third provider performs an open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation for a patient who fell from a height.
6. The provider successfully reduces the dislocation and closes the incision, allowing for natural healing without the use of implants.
7. Yet another provider performs an open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation for a patient who suffered a sports-related injury.
8. The provider carefully manipulates the bones to reduce the dislocation and ensures stability without the need for additional hardware.
9. A different provider performs an open treatment of a hip joint dislocation without internal fixation for a patient involved in a workplace accident.
10. The provider performs the procedure to reduce the dislocation and closes the incision, allowing for proper healing without the use of implants.