How To Use CPT Code 27602

CPT 27602 describes the procedure of decompression fasciotomy on the leg, specifically the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment. This article will provide an overview of CPT 27602, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27602?

CPT 27602 is used to describe the surgical procedure known as decompression fasciotomy. This procedure involves making an incision in the fascia, the connective tissue that covers and supports various structures in the leg. The purpose of the incision is to relieve pressure on the leg caused by compartment syndrome, a condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment. By cutting through the fascia, the provider can reduce the pressure on the neurovascular structures beneath it, restoring blood supply and alleviating the patient’s symptoms.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27602 is: ‘Decompression fasciotomy, leg; anterior and/or lateral, and posterior compartment(s).’ This code specifically refers to the incision and decompression of the fascia in the leg, targeting both the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An incision is made in the skin over the affected area, allowing access to the fascia.
3. The provider then cuts through the fascia, relieving pressure on the targeted muscle compartments affected by compartment syndrome.
4. If necessary, any damaged or nonviable tissue is debrided during the procedure.
5. The incision may be left open for closure at a later date, or the soft tissues may be sutured in layers to close the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27602 is performed on patients who have compartment syndrome, a condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment. The procedure is specifically indicated for decompression of the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment of the leg. It is important to note that CPT 27602 should not be reported for incision and drainage procedures on the leg, as those have their own specific codes.

5. When to use CPT code 27602

CPT code 27602 should be used when a provider performs decompression fasciotomy on the leg, targeting the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed on the leg and not on any other body part. If the procedure only involves the anterior and/or lateral compartments, a different code, such as CPT 27600, should be used. Similarly, if the procedure only involves the posterior compartment, CPT 27601 is the appropriate code to report.

6. Documentation requirements

When documenting a claim for CPT 27602, the provider should include the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of compartment syndrome
• Description of the procedure performed, including the specific compartments targeted
• Date of the procedure
• Details of any debridement performed, if applicable
• Method of wound closure, whether the incision was left open or closed with sutures

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27602, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed on the leg and that the specific compartments were decompressed. This code should not be reported for incision and drainage procedures or for decompression fasciotomy with debridement, as those have their own distinct codes. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the use of modifier 62 when multiple providers are involved in the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27602 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 surgeon performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting both the anterior and posterior compartments of the leg.
2. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the lateral compartment of the leg.
3. A surgeon performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting all three compartments of the leg.
4. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the anterior and lateral compartments of the leg.
5. A surgeon performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the posterior compartment of the leg.
6. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the anterior compartment of the leg.
7. A surgeon performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the lateral and posterior compartments of the leg.
8. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the anterior and lateral compartments of the leg.
9. A surgeon performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the anterior and posterior compartments of the leg.
10. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient with compartment syndrome affecting the lateral and posterior compartments of the leg.