How To Use CPT Code 27652

CPT 27652 describes the repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon with the use of a graft. 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 27652?

CPT 27652 can be used to describe the repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon with the placement of a graft. This code is used when a provider performs a procedure to restore function and relieve pain in the patient.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27652 is: ‘Repair, primary, open or percutaneous, ruptured Achilles tendon; with graft (includes obtaining graft)’. This code includes the placement of a graft to repair the ruptured tendon.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. A longitudinal incision is made on the medial side of the Achilles tendon to identify the site of rupture.
3. If there is insufficient length of the tendon for repair, a graft is harvested from another area.
4. The graft site is closed with sutures.
5. The provider then mobilizes the Achilles tendon, trims ragged edges, and brings the torn ends of the tendon together as much as possible.
6. The graft is woven from distal to proximal and across the rupture site of the tendon, and it is secured with sutures.
7. Any bleeding is controlled, and the soft tissue is closed with sutures.
8. The incision is closed in layers.
9. The patient’s leg is immobilized in a short leg cast for at least two weeks to allow for healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible for CPT 27652 are those with a ruptured Achilles tendon that requires repair. The procedure is performed to restore function and relieve pain in the patient. The provider must use a graft during the repair process.

5. When to use CPT code 27652

CPT code 27652 should be used when a provider performs a primary repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon with the use of a graft. This code should not be used for secondary repair or other procedures on the Achilles tendon.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27652, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a ruptured Achilles tendon
• Use of a graft during the repair process
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, graft placement, and closure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27652, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for primary repair of a ruptured Achilles tendon with the use of a graft. This code should not be reported with other codes for secondary repair or other procedures on the Achilles tendon.

8. Historical information

CPT 27652 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with a ruptured Achilles tendon, and the provider performs a primary repair using a graft.
2. After a thorough examination, the provider diagnoses a ruptured Achilles tendon and proceeds with a primary repair, utilizing a graft for optimal healing.
3. During a surgical procedure, the provider identifies a ruptured Achilles tendon and performs a primary repair with the placement of a graft.
4. A patient with a history of Achilles tendon rupture undergoes a primary repair procedure, which includes the use of a graft for improved outcomes.
5. Following a traumatic injury, the provider diagnoses a ruptured Achilles tendon and performs a primary repair, incorporating a graft to enhance the healing process.
6. Athlete presents with a ruptured Achilles tendon, and the provider performs a primary repair using a graft to ensure a successful recovery.
7. During a surgical intervention, the provider identifies a ruptured Achilles tendon and proceeds with a primary repair, utilizing a graft to promote proper healing.
8. A patient with chronic Achilles tendon issues undergoes a primary repair procedure, which involves the use of a graft to strengthen the tendon.
9. Following a thorough evaluation, the provider diagnoses a ruptured Achilles tendon and performs a primary repair, incorporating a graft for optimal results.
10. Athlete sustains a ruptured Achilles tendon and undergoes a primary repair procedure, which includes the placement of a graft to facilitate healing and restore function.