How To Use CPT Code 27712

CPT 27712 describes a specific procedure used to correct deformities in the leg, such as malunion of a fracture, unequal leg length, outward bending of the knee, or knock knee. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27712?

CPT 27712 is a code that represents a surgical procedure used to correct various deformities in the leg. This procedure involves making incisions on the leg, exposing the deformed bone, and using an intramedullary rod to realign and stabilize the bone fragments. It is typically performed to treat conditions such as malunion of fractures, unequal leg length, outward bending of the knee, or knock knee.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27712 is: ‘Osteotomy; multiple, with realignment on intramedullary rod (eg, Sofield type procedure).’ This code is used specifically for osteotomies that involve multiple segments of the tibia and fibula, with the use of an intramedullary rod for realignment and stabilization.

3. Procedure

1. The procedure begins with the patient being appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The surgeon makes longitudinal incisions on the leg to expose the deformed bone.
3. The curved part of the bone, at the convexity of the deformity, is incised into several fragments using a bone cutter or saw.
4. The surgeon then aligns and straightens all the bone fragments.
5. An intramedullary rod is inserted through the medullary cavity of the bone to provide stability and support.
6. K wires or pins may be used to fix the rod in alignment with the bone fragments.
7. Any bleeding is controlled, and the incision is closed in layers.
8. A full leg cast may be applied to aid in the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27712 is typically performed on patients with deformities in the leg, such as malunion of fractures, unequal leg length, outward bending of the knee, or knock knee. The procedure is intended to correct these deformities and improve the alignment and function of the leg. It is important to note that CPT codes 27455-27457 should be used for osteotomies specifically performed to correct genu varus (bowleg) or genu valgus (knock-knee).

5. When to use CPT code 27712

CPT code 27712 should be used when performing a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure is performed to correct genu varus or genu valgus, other specific codes should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

When documenting a procedure using CPT code 27712, the following information should be included:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the specific deformity being addressed
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of an intramedullary rod
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the incisions made and the bone fragments involved
• Method of stabilization, such as the use of K wires or pins
• Any additional procedures performed during the same surgical session
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27712, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of modifier 62, Two surgeons, may be necessary if the procedure is performed by two surgeons acting as cosurgeons. Medicare and most other payers reimburse procedures coded with modifier 62 at 125 percent of the regular fee schedule amount, divided between the two surgeons. It is important to check with individual payers for their specific billing guidelines and requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27712 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It has undergone changes in its status as an inpatient-only procedure, with removal from the inpatient-only list in 2021 and subsequent re-addition in 2022.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a malunion of a fracture undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to correct the deformity.
2. A patient with unequal leg length undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to achieve proper alignment and improve function.
3. A patient with outward bending of the knee undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to correct the deformity and restore normal knee alignment.
4. A patient with knock knee undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to straighten the legs and improve overall leg alignment.
5. A patient with a deformity in the leg undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to correct the deformity and improve leg function.
6. A patient with a malunion of a fracture undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to correct the deformity and improve overall leg alignment.
7. A patient with unequal leg length undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to achieve proper alignment and improve leg function.
8. A patient with outward bending of the knee undergoes a multiple osteotomy procedure with realignment on an intramedullary rod to correct the deformity and restore normal knee alignment.