How To Use CPT Code 27635

CPT 27635 describes the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the tibia or fibula. 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 27635?

CPT 27635 is used to describe the surgical removal of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the tibia or fibula. This procedure is performed to prevent infection and relieve pain in the patient.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27635 is the “Excision or curettage of bone cyst or benign tumor, tibia or fibula.” This code does not include obtaining a graft.

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an incision in the skin over the cyst or tumor in the tibia or fibula.
2. They then dissect through the subcutaneous tissues and muscle to expose the bone.
3. The periosteum, the outer membrane of the bone, is incised and reflected to gain access to the cyst or tumor.
4. The surgeon uses a burr to excise the cyst or tumor and smooth the surfaces of the bone.
5. The area is washed with warm saline or an antibiotic solution to prevent infection.
6. The periosteum is then placed back in its original position over the bone.
7. The soft tissue layers are sutured closed, and the incision is closed in layers with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27635 is performed on patients who have a bone cyst or benign tumor in the tibia or fibula. The procedure is done to alleviate pain and prevent infection. It is important to note that this code does not include obtaining a graft.

5. When to use CPT code 27635

CPT code 27635 should be used when a surgeon performs the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the tibia or fibula. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and that it is not reported with other codes that include obtaining a graft.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27635, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the tibia or fibula
• Description of the procedure performed, including the incision, excision or curettage of the cyst or tumor, and closure of the incision
• Any additional procedures performed, if applicable
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the surgeon performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27635, ensure that the documentation supports the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor in the tibia or fibula. It is important to note that this code does not include obtaining a graft. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or modifiers required by the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27635 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 the excision of a bone cyst in the tibia of a patient to alleviate pain and prevent infection.
2. A patient undergoes the curettage of a benign tumor in the fibula to relieve pain and prevent further complications.
3. A surgeon excises a bone cyst in the tibia of a patient and smooths the surfaces of the bone to promote healing and prevent infection.
4. A benign tumor in the fibula is removed through excision by a surgeon to alleviate pain and improve the patient’s quality of life.
5. A patient with a bone cyst in the tibia undergoes the curettage procedure to prevent infection and relieve discomfort.
6. A surgeon performs the excision of a benign tumor in the fibula to prevent further growth and alleviate pain in the patient.
7. The curettage of a bone cyst in the tibia is performed by a surgeon to promote healing and prevent complications.
8. A patient undergoes the excision of a benign tumor in the fibula to improve their mobility and reduce pain.
9. A surgeon removes a bone cyst in the tibia through excision to prevent infection and relieve discomfort in the patient.
10. The curettage of a benign tumor in the fibula is performed by a surgeon to prevent further growth and alleviate pain in the patient.