How To Use CPT Code 27700

CPT 27700 describes the procedure of ankle arthroplasty, which involves the reconstruction of the ankle joint to treat conditions such as arthritis or fracture. 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 27700?

CPT 27700 is used to describe the surgical procedure known as ankle arthroplasty. This procedure involves the reconstruction of the ankle joint to address conditions like arthritis or fracture. It is performed by a healthcare provider who makes an incision in the front portion of the ankle to expose the joint. The diseased bones are smoothed, and the soft tissues are repaired before closing the wound.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27700 is: ‘Arthroplasty, ankle.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the front portion of the ankle to expose the ankle joint.
3. Tissues, including tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, are dissected and moved aside.
4. The provider smooths the surface of the diseased bones.
5. The soft tissues are repaired, any bleeding is controlled, and the wound is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27700 is performed when a patient has arthritis or a fracture that requires the reconstruction of the ankle joint. The procedure is typically carried out by a healthcare provider who is trained and qualified to perform ankle arthroplasty.

5. When to use CPT code 27700

CPT code 27700 should be used when a patient requires ankle arthroplasty to address arthritis or a fracture. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by CPT code 27700.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27700, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the need for ankle arthroplasty
• Description of the procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the incision and closure
• Any additional relevant information or complications

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27700, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by the code. It is important to follow the specific guidelines and requirements set by the payer to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27700 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 undergoes ankle arthroplasty to address severe arthritis in the joint.
2. An individual fractures their ankle and requires ankle arthroplasty for proper healing and restoration of function.
3. A healthcare provider performs ankle arthroplasty on a patient with a history of chronic ankle instability.
4. An individual with a previous ankle injury undergoes ankle arthroplasty to improve their mobility and reduce pain.
5. A patient with a congenital ankle deformity undergoes ankle arthroplasty to correct the condition and improve their quality of life.
6. An individual with post-traumatic arthritis in the ankle joint undergoes ankle arthroplasty to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
7. A healthcare provider performs ankle arthroplasty on a patient with rheumatoid arthritis affecting the ankle joint.
8. An individual with a severe ankle fracture undergoes ankle arthroplasty to restore stability and function.
9. A patient with osteoarthritis in the ankle joint undergoes ankle arthroplasty to relieve pain and improve mobility.
10. An individual with a history of ankle dislocations undergoes ankle arthroplasty to prevent future instability and improve joint function.