How To Use CPT Code 27722

CPT 27722 describes the repair of a nonunion or malunion of the tibia using a sliding 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 27722?

CPT 27722 is used to describe the surgical repair of a tibial fracture that has not healed properly or at all. The procedure involves the placement of a sliding bone graft between the fragments of the fracture. The purpose of this procedure is to restore function and alleviate pain in the affected area.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27722 is: ‘Repair of nonunion or malunion, tibia; with sliding graft.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision and exposing the nonunion or malunion of the tibia.
2. Any fibrous tissue is removed through debridement.
3. If a malunion is present, the provider performs an osteotomy to obtain healthy bone for the union.
4. A sliding bone graft is taken from a nearby area of the tibia and inserted into the defect between the fracture fragments.
5. The two ends of the fracture fragments are then joined together and secured with a plate and screws.
6. Any bleeding is controlled, and the wound is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27722 is performed on patients who have a nonunion or malunion of the tibia. Nonunion refers to the failure of a fractured bone to heal properly, while malunion refers to the healing of a fracture in an abnormal position. The procedure is done to restore proper healing and function in the affected area.

5. When to use CPT code 27722

CPT code 27722 should be used when a provider performs a surgical repair of a nonunion or malunion of the tibia using a sliding graft. It is important to note that this code should not be used if the procedure does not involve the use of a graft or if an iliac or other autograft is used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27722, the provider must document the following information:

• The diagnosis of nonunion or malunion of the tibia
• The specific details of the procedure, including the use of a sliding graft
• The date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27722, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code. The provider should be careful not to report this code if a graft is not used or if a different type of graft, such as an iliac or other autograft, is used instead. Modifier 62 should be appended if the provider is acting as a cosurgeon with another provider. It is also important to check with the payer regarding their specific guidelines for reporting cosurgeon modifiers.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27722 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 with a nonunion of the tibia undergoes a surgical repair using a sliding graft to restore proper healing and function.
2. A provider performs a surgical repair on a patient with a malunion of the tibia, using a sliding graft to correct the abnormal healing position.
3. A patient with a nonunion of the tibia undergoes a surgical repair with a sliding graft after previous attempts at healing have failed.
4. A provider performs a surgical repair on a patient with a malunion of the tibia, using a sliding graft to improve alignment and function.
5. A patient with a nonunion of the tibia undergoes a surgical repair with a sliding graft to alleviate pain and restore proper healing.
6. A provider performs a surgical repair on a patient with a malunion of the tibia, using a sliding graft to correct the deformity and improve function.
7. A patient with a nonunion of the tibia undergoes a surgical repair with a sliding graft to promote bone healing and restore strength.
8. A provider performs a surgical repair on a patient with a malunion of the tibia, using a sliding graft to realign the bone fragments and improve stability.
9. A patient with a nonunion of the tibia undergoes a surgical repair with a sliding graft to address the failed healing and improve mobility.
10. A provider performs a surgical repair on a patient with a malunion of the tibia, using a sliding graft to correct the abnormal healing position and restore function.