How To Use CPT Code 27511

CPT 27511 describes the open treatment of a femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, including internal fixation if performed. 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 27511?

CPT 27511 is used to describe the open treatment of a femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension. This procedure involves the use of internal fixation, such as screws, pins, or wires, to stabilize the fracture and ensure proper alignment for complete healing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27511 is: ‘Open treatment of femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, includes internal fixation, when performed.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision at the site of the fracture in the supracondylar part of the femur.
2. They manually reduce the fracture by aligning the bones in the correct anatomical position.
3. Internal fixation devices, such as plates or screws, are then inserted to stabilize the bones.
4. The provider ensures hemostasis and closes the incision in layers with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27511 is performed on patients with a femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture that does not extend into the area between the condyles. The procedure is typically done to stabilize the fracture and promote proper healing. It is important to note that this code should only be used when internal fixation is performed.

5. When to use CPT code 27511

CPT code 27511 should be used when the provider performs an open treatment of a femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension and includes internal fixation. It is important to ensure that the fracture meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description before reporting it.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27511, the provider must document the following information:

• Diagnosis of the femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture
• Details of the procedure performed, including the use of internal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or services provided
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27511, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. This includes performing an open treatment of a femoral supracondylar or transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension and including internal fixation. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 27511 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 the addition and removal from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare patients.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes open treatment of a femoral supracondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, including internal fixation using screws.
2. A provider performs open reduction and internal fixation of a transcondylar fracture of the femur.
3. A patient with a femoral supracondylar fracture undergoes open treatment with the insertion of pins for internal fixation.
4. A provider performs open treatment of a femoral transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, using plates for internal fixation.
5. A patient undergoes open reduction and internal fixation of a supracondylar fracture of the femur using screws and wires.
6. A provider performs open treatment of a femoral supracondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, using intramedullary nails for internal fixation.
7. A patient with a transcondylar fracture of the femur undergoes open treatment with the insertion of screws for internal fixation.
8. A provider performs open reduction and internal fixation of a femoral supracondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, using plates and screws.
9. A patient undergoes open treatment of a femoral transcondylar fracture without intercondylar extension, including internal fixation using cerclage wires.
10. A provider performs open reduction and internal fixation of a supracondylar fracture of the femur using intramedullary implants.