How To Use CPT Code 27600

CPT 27600 describes a specific procedure performed on the leg to reduce pain. 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 27600?

CPT 27600 is a code used to describe a procedure performed on the leg to relieve pain. This code is specifically for a decompression fasciotomy in the anterior and/or lateral compartments of the leg. The provider makes an incision in the skin over the affected area and excises the fascia to alleviate pain and increase blood supply.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27600 is: ‘Decompression fasciotomy, leg; anterior and/or lateral compartments only.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the skin over the affected area in the anterior or lateral compartment of the leg.
3. The provider then excises the fascia, which is the connective tissue that covers and supports other structures in the leg.
4. This procedure helps relieve pain and improve blood supply to the affected area.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27600 is performed on patients who require decompression fasciotomy in the anterior and/or lateral compartments of the leg to alleviate pain. It is important to note that if the provider excises fascia from the posterior compartment of the leg, a different code should be used (CPT 27601). If the provider excises fascia from all compartments of the leg, another code should be used (CPT 27602).

5. When to use CPT code 27600

CPT code 27600 should be used when a decompression fasciotomy is performed in the anterior and/or lateral compartments of the leg. It is important to accurately document the specific compartments involved in the procedure to ensure proper coding.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27600, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for decompression fasciotomy
• Specific compartments involved in the procedure (anterior and/or lateral)
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incision and excision of the fascia
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27600, ensure that the procedure is performed in the anterior and/or lateral compartments of the leg. If the fascia is excised from the posterior compartment, use a different code (CPT 27601). If all compartments are involved, use another code (CPT 27602). It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 27600 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 compartment syndrome undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in the anterior compartment of the leg.
2. A runner with chronic exertional compartment syndrome undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in the lateral compartment of the leg.
3. A patient with acute trauma to the leg requires a decompression fasciotomy in both the anterior and lateral compartments.
4. An individual with chronic pain in the leg undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in the anterior compartment.
5. A patient with a severe leg injury requires a decompression fasciotomy in the lateral compartment to alleviate pain and improve blood supply.
6. A professional athlete with compartment syndrome undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in both the anterior and lateral compartments of the leg.
7. A patient with a chronic condition that causes leg pain undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in the anterior compartment.
8. An individual with a leg injury requires a decompression fasciotomy in the lateral compartment to relieve pain and improve blood flow.
9. A patient with a severe leg infection undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in the anterior compartment.
10. An individual with chronic leg pain undergoes a decompression fasciotomy in the lateral compartment to alleviate symptoms.