How To Use CPT Code 27326

CPT 27326 describes the excision of a nerve from the popliteal or gastrocnemius muscle to relieve spasms. 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 27326?

CPT 27326 is used to describe the excision of a nerve from the popliteal or gastrocnemius muscle. This procedure is performed to relieve spasms in the muscle. The provider makes an incision over the muscle, identifies the nerve branch using forceps, and partially or completely excises the nerve. The incision is then closed with sutures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27326 is: ‘Neurectomy, popliteal (gastrocnemius).’ There are no additional notes or modifiers associated with this code.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision over the popliteal or gastrocnemius muscle.
3. The nerves supplying the muscle are uncovered.
4. The provider uses forceps to identify the nerve branch.
5. The provider partially or completely excises the nerve.
6. Hemostasis is ensured and the incision on the muscle is closed with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27326 is performed when there is a need to relieve spasms in the popliteal or gastrocnemius muscle. The patient must have a condition that requires the excision of the nerve. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 27326

CPT code 27326 should be used when the provider performs the excision of a nerve from the popliteal or gastrocnemius muscle to relieve spasms. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and meets the criteria for reimbursement.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27326, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the neurectomy
• Details of the procedure, including the specific nerve excised and the approach used
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27326, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for reimbursement. It is important to accurately code the excision of the nerve from the popliteal or gastrocnemius muscle. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting this code with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 27326 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2007. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with severe muscle spasms in the popliteal muscle undergoes neurectomy to relieve the symptoms.
2. A provider performs neurectomy on a patient with chronic spasms in the gastrocnemius muscle.
3. A professional athlete undergoes neurectomy to address persistent spasms in the popliteal muscle.
4. A patient with a neurological condition experiences frequent spasms in the gastrocnemius muscle and undergoes neurectomy for relief.
5. A provider performs neurectomy on a patient with spasms in both the popliteal and gastrocnemius muscles.
6. A patient with a history of muscle spasms in the popliteal muscle undergoes neurectomy as a preventive measure.
7. A provider performs neurectomy on a patient with spasms in the gastrocnemius muscle following a traumatic injury.
8. A patient with a chronic muscle disorder undergoes neurectomy to manage recurring spasms in the popliteal muscle.
9. A provider performs neurectomy on a patient with spasms in the gastrocnemius muscle that have not responded to conservative treatments.
10. A patient with a rare muscle disorder undergoes neurectomy to alleviate severe spasms in the popliteal muscle.