How To Use CPT Code 27612

CPT 27612 describes a specific procedure performed on the leg and ankle joint. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27612?

CPT 27612 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure involving the posterior capsule of the ankle joint. This procedure may also include an Achilles tendon lengthening, although it is not always necessary. The purpose of this procedure is to relieve contracture and correct an equinus deformity of the ankle.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27612 is: ‘Arthrotomy, posterior capsular release, ankle, with or without Achilles tendon lengthening.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a posteromedial incision over the ankle area.
2. They then dissect through the subcutaneous tissue to reach the joint capsule.
3. The joint capsule is incised and opened to release contracture.
4. If necessary, the provider may perform an Achilles tendon lengthening by making two Z-shaped incisions in the tendon.
5. The wound is irrigated with antibiotic solution, any bleeding is controlled, and the incision is closed in layers using sutures, staples, and/or sterile adhesive strips.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27612 is performed on patients who have contracture and equinus deformity of the ankle joint. The procedure is typically done by a surgeon and may or may not involve an Achilles tendon lengthening. It is important to note that this procedure specifically targets the posterior capsule of the ankle joint.

5. When to use CPT code 27612

CPT code 27612 should be used when a provider performs an arthrotomy on the posterior capsule of the ankle joint. This code is appropriate when the procedure includes a posterior capsular release, with or without an Achilles tendon lengthening. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27612, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for the procedure
• Details of the procedure performed, including whether an Achilles tendon lengthening was done
• Incision location and size
• Method of closure (sutures, staples, adhesive strips)
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27612, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. It is important to accurately document the procedure and any additional services provided. It is also essential to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT 27612 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 an arthrotomy on the posterior capsule of the ankle joint to release contracture and correct an equinus deformity.
2. A patient with a severe equinus deformity undergoes an arthrotomy on the ankle joint, including an Achilles tendon lengthening.
3. A provider performs a posterior capsular release on a patient with ankle contracture, without the need for an Achilles tendon lengthening.
4. An individual with a history of ankle contracture and equinus deformity undergoes an arthrotomy on the posterior capsule of the ankle joint, along with an Achilles tendon lengthening.
5. A surgeon performs a posterior capsular release on a patient with ankle contracture, followed by closure of the incision using sutures.
6. A provider performs an arthrotomy on the ankle joint, releasing the posterior capsule and performing an Achilles tendon lengthening to correct an equinus deformity.
7. An individual with a severe equinus deformity undergoes an arthrotomy on the posterior capsule of the ankle joint, without the need for an Achilles tendon lengthening.
8. A surgeon performs a posterior capsular release on a patient with ankle contracture, followed by closure of the incision using staples.
9. A provider performs an arthrotomy on the ankle joint, releasing the posterior capsule and performing an Achilles tendon lengthening to correct an equinus deformity.
10. An individual with a history of ankle contracture and equinus deformity undergoes an arthrotomy on the posterior capsule of the ankle joint, without the need for an Achilles tendon lengthening.