How To Use CPT Code 27532

CPT 27532 describes the closed treatment of a proximal tibial fracture, specifically the bicondylar plateau, with or without manipulation, using skeletal traction. 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 27532?

CPT 27532 is used to describe the closed treatment of a proximal tibial fracture, specifically the bicondylar plateau. The procedure may or may not involve manipulation of the fracture, and it utilizes skeletal traction to ensure proper alignment of the bone fragments. The goal of this procedure is to stabilize the fracture and promote healing.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27532 is: ‘Closed treatment of tibial fracture, proximal (plateau); with or without manipulation, with skeletal traction.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient.
2. Radiological images are obtained to locate the exact site of the tibial fracture.
3. The provider may perform manual manipulation to align the bone fragments in the correct anatomical position.
4. Skeletal traction is applied with a weight above the ankle for a period of four to six weeks.
5. This skeletal traction helps stabilize the fracture and promote proper healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27532 is used for patients with a proximal tibial fracture, specifically the bicondylar plateau. The procedure may involve manipulation of the fracture, but it can also be performed without manipulation. Skeletal traction is utilized to ensure proper alignment and stabilization of the fracture. This code should only be used for fractures in the proximal tibia and not for fractures in other areas of the leg.

5. When to use CPT code 27532

CPT code 27532 should be used when a provider performs the closed treatment of a proximal tibial fracture, specifically the bicondylar plateau. The procedure may involve manipulation of the fracture, but it can also be performed without manipulation. Skeletal traction is utilized to ensure proper alignment and stabilization of the fracture. It is important to note that this code should only be used for fractures in the proximal tibia and not for fractures in other areas of the leg.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27532, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a proximal tibial fracture
• Details of the closed treatment procedure performed
• Whether manipulation was involved or not
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Use of skeletal traction and the weight applied
• Any additional procedures or services provided during the same encounter
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27532, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. The use of skeletal traction and the involvement of manipulation should be documented. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the use of modifiers or additional codes. It is also essential to review any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 27532 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 presents with a bicondylar proximal tibial plateau fracture. The provider performs closed treatment using skeletal traction for stabilization.
2. A patient sustains a proximal tibial fracture without displacement. The provider performs closed treatment with skeletal traction to ensure proper alignment and healing.
3. A patient with a bicondylar proximal tibial plateau fracture undergoes closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction for stabilization.
4. A patient presents with a displaced proximal tibial fracture. The provider performs closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction to realign the bone fragments.
5. A patient with a non-displaced proximal tibial fracture undergoes closed treatment with skeletal traction to promote healing and stability.
6. A patient sustains a bicondylar proximal tibial plateau fracture and undergoes closed treatment without manipulation, utilizing skeletal traction for stabilization.
7. A patient presents with a proximal tibial fracture and undergoes closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction for proper alignment and healing.
8. A patient with a bicondylar proximal tibial plateau fracture undergoes closed treatment without manipulation, utilizing skeletal traction for stabilization.
9. A patient sustains a proximal tibial fracture with displacement. The provider performs closed treatment with manipulation and skeletal traction to realign the bone fragments and promote healing.
10. A patient presents with a non-displaced proximal tibial fracture and undergoes closed treatment with skeletal traction for stability and healing.