How To Use CPT Code 27596

CPT 27596 describes the re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone at any level. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27596?

CPT 27596 is used to describe the re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone at any level. This procedure is performed when an additional length needs to be removed from an already amputated femur bone due to non-healing or when the current form of the amputation is not suitable for fitting a prosthesis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27596 is: ‘Amputation, thigh, through femur, any level; re-amputation.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the provider makes an incision over the predetermined location on the amputated limb.
2. The incision is extended down to the level of the bone, and any blood vessels present are ligated and nerves are retracted.
3. The provider then cuts the additional section of the femur bone and smooths the edges with an electric burr.
4. The muscles and skin are cut, leaving enough margin to cover the wound.
5. The provider covers the wound with muscle, sutures it along with the fascia, and closes the skin with sutures after placing a drain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27596 is performed when there is a need to remove an additional length from an already amputated femur bone. This may be necessary when the initial amputation did not heal properly or when the existing amputation does not allow for the fitting of a prosthesis.

5. When to use CPT code 27596

CPT code 27596 should be used when a re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone is performed. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27596, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the re-amputation
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, bone cutting, and wound closure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27596, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. The provider should also follow any additional billing guidelines provided by the payer. It is important to review the payer’s policies and guidelines to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 27596 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was initially removed from the Inpatient Only (IPO) list in 2017 but was later added back to the list in 2022.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone due to non-healing of the initial amputation.
2. A prosthesis cannot be properly fitted to the existing amputation, leading to the need for re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone.
3. Due to complications from the initial amputation, the provider performs a re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone.
4. The patient’s condition changes, requiring a modification of the existing amputation through re-amputation of the thigh.
5. A re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone is performed to improve the patient’s mobility and functionality.
6. Following a thorough evaluation, the provider determines that re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone is necessary for the patient’s overall well-being.
7. Due to non-healing and persistent pain, the provider decides to perform a re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone.
8. The patient’s amputation site becomes infected, necessitating a re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone.
9. After careful consideration, the provider determines that a re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone is the best course of action for the patient’s long-term health.
10. Following a comprehensive discussion with the patient, the provider and patient agree that a re-amputation of the thigh through the femur bone is the most appropriate treatment option.