How To Use CPT Code 27393

CPT 27393 describes the lengthening of a single tendon of the hamstring muscles from the knee to the hip. 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 27393?

CPT 27393 can be used to describe the lengthening of a single tendon of the hamstring muscles. The hamstring muscles, which include the biceps femoris, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus, are responsible for bending the knee joint and backward movement of the thigh. This code is used when the provider incises the tendon to lengthen it, allowing the muscle to return to its normal length and correct any deformity.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27393 is: ‘Lengthening of hamstring tendon; single tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision in the skin of the back of the thigh just above the popliteal fossa over the target tendon.
2. They dissect down through the subcutaneous tissue to expose the tendon.
3. The provider incises the tendon to lengthen it, making multiple incisions if necessary.
4. They may reattach the cut portions of the tendon in a way that lengthens it and allows the muscle to return to its normal length.
5. Hemostasis is obtained at the surgical site, and the wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27393 is used when the provider lengthens a single tendon of the hamstring muscles. This procedure is typically performed on patients with deformities or conditions that require the lengthening of the hamstring tendon. It is important to note that this code is specifically for the lengthening of a single tendon, and different codes should be used for multiple tendon lengthening or tenotomy procedures.

5. When to use CPT code 27393

CPT code 27393 should be used when the provider performs the lengthening of a single hamstring tendon. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the code description. If multiple tendons are lengthened in one leg, CPT code 27394 should be used. If multiple tendons are lengthened in both legs, CPT code 27395 should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27393, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis or condition requiring the lengthening of the hamstring tendon
• Details of the procedure, including the specific tendon lengthened and any additional incisions made
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27393, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide any necessary supporting documentation. If multiple tendons are lengthened in one leg, use CPT code 27394. If multiple tendons are lengthened in both legs, use CPT code 27395.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27393 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 provider performs the lengthening of the biceps femoris tendon in a patient with a knee deformity.
2. A patient with a hamstring muscle contracture undergoes the lengthening of the semitendinosus tendon.
3. A provider performs the lengthening of the semimembranosus tendon in a patient with limited range of motion in the hip joint.
4. A patient with a hamstring muscle injury undergoes the lengthening of the biceps femoris tendon.
5. A provider performs the lengthening of the semitendinosus tendon in a patient with a hamstring strain.
6. A patient with a hamstring muscle imbalance undergoes the lengthening of the semimembranosus tendon.
7. A provider performs the lengthening of the biceps femoris tendon in a patient with a hamstring muscle tear.
8. A patient with a hamstring muscle tightness undergoes the lengthening of the semitendinosus tendon.
9. A provider performs the lengthening of the semimembranosus tendon in a patient with a hamstring muscle spasm.
10. A patient with a hamstring muscle contracture undergoes the lengthening of the biceps femoris tendon.