How To Use CPT Code 27424

CPT 27424 describes the surgical procedure for the reconstruction of a dislocating patella, specifically involving the removal of the patella. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27424?

CPT 27424 is used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the patella to treat a dislocating patella. This condition occurs when the knee cap slips out of its normal position, causing pain and swelling. The procedure aims to reconstruct the knee by addressing the dislocation issue.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27424 is the “Reconstruction of dislocating patella; with patellectomy.” This procedure involves the surgical removal of the patella to treat a dislocating patella. It is important to note that there are other codes available for different types of reconstruction procedures related to a dislocating patella.

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an incision in the skin of the knee joint in front of the patella.
2. They then carefully dissect through the soft tissue to gain access to the knee cap.
3. The surgeon frees the patella from its surrounding attachments and removes it.
4. During the procedure, the surgeon preserves the quadriceps tendon above the knee cap, the patellar tendon below, and other soft tissues around the knee cap to ensure the patient’s ability to extend the knee post-surgery.
5. Hemostasis is achieved at the surgical site, and the wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue layers. In some cases, a drain may be placed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27424 is performed on patients with a dislocating patella, where the knee cap slips out of its normal position. The procedure is intended to address this issue and alleviate associated pain and swelling. It is important to note that there are other codes available for different types of reconstruction procedures related to a dislocating patella.

5. When to use CPT code 27424

CPT code 27424 should be used when a surgical reconstruction procedure involving the removal of the patella is performed to treat a dislocating patella. It is important to accurately document the specific procedure performed and ensure that it aligns with the official description of CPT code 27424.

6. Documentation requirements

Documentation for CPT code 27424 should include:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a dislocating patella
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the removal of the patella
• Date of the surgery
• Any additional relevant information, such as the use of a drain
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27424, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description. Additionally, it is crucial to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer. It is also important to note that there are other codes available for different types of reconstruction procedures related to a dislocating patella.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27424 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a surgical procedure involving the removal of the patella to address their dislocating patella.
2. A surgeon performs a reconstruction procedure on a patient’s knee, specifically involving the removal of the patella to treat their dislocating patella.
3. A dislocating patella is surgically addressed through the removal of the patella, providing relief to the patient.
4. A patient with a dislocating patella undergoes a surgical procedure that includes the removal of the patella to alleviate their symptoms.
5. A surgeon performs a patellectomy as part of a reconstruction procedure to treat a patient’s dislocating patella.
6. A dislocating patella is surgically treated by removing the patella, resulting in improved knee stability for the patient.
7. A patient with a dislocating patella undergoes a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the patella to restore normal knee function.
8. A surgeon performs a reconstruction procedure on a patient’s knee, specifically involving the removal of the patella to address their dislocating patella.
9. A dislocating patella is surgically corrected through the removal of the patella, providing the patient with relief from pain and improved knee function.
10. A patient undergoes a patellectomy as part of a surgical procedure to treat their dislocating patella, resulting in improved knee stability and reduced symptoms.