How To Use CPT Code 27704

CPT 27704 describes the removal of an ankle implant to treat pain and discomfort on weight bearing. 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 27704?

CPT 27704 can be used to describe the removal of a previously placed implant in the ankle to alleviate pain and discomfort experienced during weight bearing. This code is used when the provider performs the procedure to remove the implant.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27704 is: ‘Removal of ankle implant.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure by ensuring appropriate anesthesia and prepping the surgical site.
2. An incision is made over the site of the implant to gain access to it.
3. The provider exposes and removes the implant from the ankle.
4. Any residual cement is scraped away from the area.
5. The wound is thoroughly irrigated to remove any debris or irrigating fluid.
6. Bleeding is controlled, and the wound is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 27704 are those who have a previously placed ankle implant that is causing pain and discomfort during weight bearing. The procedure is performed by a qualified provider who has the necessary expertise to safely remove the implant.

5. When to use CPT code 27704

CPT code 27704 should be used when a provider performs the removal of an ankle implant to alleviate pain and discomfort during weight bearing. It is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by the code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27704, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for implant removal
• Details of the procedure, including the incision site and any complications encountered
• Documentation of the implant removal and any additional procedures performed, such as cement removal
• Any post-procedure instructions or follow-up care provided to the patient
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27704, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by the code. It is important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer. Modifier 62, Two surgeons, may be appended if the provider is acting as a cosurgeon with another provider. Medicare and most other payers reimburse procedures coded with modifier 62 at 125 percent of the regular fee schedule amount.

8. Historical information

CPT 27704 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 undergoes the removal of an ankle implant due to pain and discomfort during weight bearing.
2. A provider performs the removal of a previously placed ankle implant to alleviate the patient’s symptoms.
3. An individual with an ankle implant experiences pain and discomfort, leading to the decision to remove the implant.
4. A provider removes an ankle implant to address the patient’s ongoing discomfort and improve their quality of life.
5. The removal of an ankle implant is performed to relieve the patient’s pain and restore normal function.
6. A provider performs the removal of an ankle implant to address the patient’s specific needs and improve their overall well-being.
7. An individual undergoes the removal of an ankle implant to alleviate pain and discomfort experienced during weight bearing activities.
8. A provider performs the removal of an ankle implant to improve the patient’s mobility and reduce their pain levels.
9. A patient with a previously placed ankle implant undergoes the removal procedure to address ongoing issues and improve their quality of life.
10. An individual seeks the removal of an ankle implant to alleviate pain and discomfort that has been affecting their daily activities.