How To Use CPT Code 27340

CPT 27340 describes the excision of the prepatellar bursa, a fluid-filled covering in front of the knee, to alleviate pain. 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 27340?

CPT 27340 is used to describe the excision of the prepatellar bursa, which is a fluid-filled sac located in front of the knee. This procedure is performed to relieve pain and discomfort caused by inflammation or other conditions affecting the bursa. The provider makes an incision on top of the knee, drains the fluid from the bursa, and may excise the bursa if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27340 is: ‘Excision, prepatellar bursa.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider makes an incision on top of the knee.
3. A needle is introduced into the prepatellar bursa to drain the fluid.
4. If there is a continuous collection of fluid in the bursa, the provider may excise the bursa.
5. Hemostasis is ensured, and the site is closed with layered incisions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27340 is performed on patients who experience pain and discomfort due to inflammation or other conditions affecting the prepatellar bursa. The procedure is typically done by a provider who has determined that excision of the bursa is necessary to alleviate the patient’s symptoms. It is important to note that this code represents a unilateral service, meaning it is performed on one knee. If the provider performs the procedure on both knees, modifiers 50, RT, and LT may be appended based on payer preference.

5. When to use CPT code 27340

CPT code 27340 should be used when the provider performs the excision of the prepatellar bursa to relieve pain and discomfort caused by inflammation or other conditions affecting the bursa. It is important to note that if the provider performs an arthroscopic procedure along with the excision of the bursa, CPT code 27340 should not be reported, as it refers to an open procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27340, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for excision of the prepatellar bursa
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, drainage of fluid, and excision of the bursa if performed
• Date of the procedure
• Unilateral or bilateral nature of the procedure, if applicable
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27340, ensure that the procedure is performed by a qualified provider and that the documentation supports the medical necessity of the excision. It is important to note that if the provider performs an arthroscopic procedure along with the excision of the bursa, CPT code 27340 should not be reported. Additionally, modifiers 50, RT, and LT may be appended if the procedure is performed on both knees.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27340 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 undergoes excision of the prepatellar bursa on their right knee to alleviate pain caused by inflammation.
2. A provider performs the excision of the prepatellar bursa on a patient’s left knee to relieve discomfort caused by a chronic condition affecting the bursa.
3. Excision of the prepatellar bursa is performed on a patient’s knee to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
4. A provider excises the prepatellar bursa on a patient’s knee to treat a recurring infection in the bursa.
5. A patient undergoes excision of the prepatellar bursa on their right knee to address chronic inflammation and pain.
6. The provider performs the excision of the prepatellar bursa on a patient’s left knee to alleviate discomfort and improve their quality of life.
7. Excision of the prepatellar bursa is performed on a patient’s knee to relieve pain caused by a traumatic injury.
8. A provider excises the prepatellar bursa on a patient’s knee to address a chronic condition that has not responded to conservative treatments.
9. A patient undergoes excision of the prepatellar bursa on their right knee to alleviate pain and improve their ability to participate in daily activities.
10. The provider performs the excision of the prepatellar bursa on a patient’s left knee to address a recurrent infection and prevent further complications.