How To Use CPT Code 27435

CPT 27435 describes a procedure that involves the division of the joint capsule on the back of the knee to correct a flexion contracture. 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 27435?

CPT 27435 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure that aims to correct a flexion contracture of the knee joint. This procedure involves the division of the joint capsule located at the back of the knee. The flexion contracture is an abnormal tightening of the capsule that results in the inability to fully straighten the knee.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27435 is: ‘Capsulotomy, posterior capsular release, knee.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the skin at the back of the knee joint.
2. They then dissect through the subcutaneous tissue, which is the layer just beneath the skin, to reach the joint capsule.
3. Next, the provider retracts the blood vessels and nerves in the surgical field.
4. They proceed to incise the tight capsule at the back of the knee, effectively dividing it to correct the knee deformity caused by the contracture.
5. Hemostasis, which refers to the stoppage of bleeding, is achieved at the surgical site.
6. Finally, the wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27435 is performed when a patient presents with a flexion contracture of the knee joint. This condition involves a permanent shortening of the tissue surrounding the joint, restricting normal movement. The procedure is appropriate for patients who have been unable to straighten their knee due to the contracture.

5. When to use CPT code 27435

CPT code 27435 should be used when a provider performs a capsulotomy and posterior capsular release to correct a flexion contracture of the knee joint. It is important to note that this code is specific to the described procedure and should not be used for other knee-related interventions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27435, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a flexion contracture of the knee joint
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the incision, dissection, capsule division, and closure
• Any additional findings or procedures performed during the surgery
• Any complications or adverse events encountered
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27435, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the code’s description. This code should not be reported with other knee-related codes unless additional procedures were performed. It is crucial to review the documentation and accurately select the appropriate code to avoid billing errors.

8. Historical information

CPT 27435 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 with a flexion contracture of the knee undergoes a capsulotomy and posterior capsular release to correct the deformity.
2. A provider performs a surgical procedure to divide the tight capsule at the back of the knee, allowing a patient to regain full range of motion.
3. A capsulotomy and posterior capsular release are performed on a patient with a flexion contracture, resulting in improved knee function.
4. A provider corrects a knee deformity caused by a contracture by performing a capsulotomy and releasing the posterior capsule.
5. A patient with an inability to straighten their knee due to a flexion contracture undergoes a surgical procedure involving the division of the joint capsule at the back of the knee.
6. A capsulotomy and posterior capsular release are performed to correct a flexion contracture, allowing the patient to fully extend their knee.
7. A provider performs a surgical intervention to address a flexion contracture of the knee joint by dividing the tight capsule at the back of the knee.
8. A patient with a knee deformity caused by a contracture undergoes a capsulotomy and posterior capsular release to restore normal joint movement.
9. A capsulotomy and posterior capsular release are performed on a patient with a flexion contracture, resulting in improved mobility and function of the knee.
10. A provider corrects a knee deformity by performing a surgical procedure that involves the division of the joint capsule at the back of the knee.