How To Use CPT Code 27507

CPT 27507 describes the open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture with the use of plates and screws, with or without cerclage. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 27507, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27507?

CPT 27507 is used to describe the open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture. This procedure involves the use of plates and screws to stabilize the fracture and promote proper healing. The provider makes an incision at the site of the fracture on the femoral shaft and repositions the bone fragments to achieve correct anatomical alignment. Metal screws and plates are then inserted above and below the fracture site to stabilize the fragments. In some cases, cerclage wires may also be used to provide additional stability. The goal of this procedure is to attain stability and proper bone position to ensure healthy healing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27507 is: ‘Open treatment of femoral shaft fracture with plate/screws, with or without cerclage.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision at the site of the femoral shaft fracture.
2. They then reposition the bone fragments to achieve correct anatomical alignment.
3. Next, metal screws and plates are inserted above and below the fracture site to stabilize the fragments.
4. In some cases, cerclage wires may also be used to provide additional stability.
5. The provider ensures hemostasis and closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 27507 is used for patients who require open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture. This procedure is typically performed when the fracture is severe and cannot be adequately treated with non-surgical methods. The patient must have a femoral shaft fracture that requires stabilization with plates and screws, with or without the use of cerclage. The procedure must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 27507

CPT code 27507 should be used when the provider performs open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture using plates and screws, with or without cerclage. This code is appropriate when the fracture requires surgical intervention for stabilization and proper healing. It should not be used for closed treatment of a femoral shaft fracture or for fractures that are treated with other methods such as external fixation or intramedullary implants.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27507, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a femoral shaft fracture
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of plates, screws, and cerclage if applicable
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the incision and closure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27507, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. The provider must perform open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture using plates and screws, with or without cerclage. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines for CPT code 27507 to ensure accurate and appropriate reporting.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27507 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been several updates and changes to the code over the years, including its inclusion and removal from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare. It is important to stay updated on any changes or updates to ensure accurate coding and billing.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture using plates and screws, with the addition of cerclage wires for additional stability.
2. A provider performs open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture with plates and screws, without the use of cerclage.
3. A patient requires open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture with plates and screws, and the provider also performs debridement of the fracture site.
4. A provider performs open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture with plates and screws, and also addresses a dislocation of the hip joint during the procedure.
5. A patient undergoes open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture with plates and screws, and the provider also performs a bone graft to aid in the healing process.