How To Use CPT Code 27781

CPT 27781 describes the closed treatment of a proximal fibula or shaft fracture with manipulation. 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 27781?

CPT 27781 is used to describe the closed treatment of a proximal fibula or shaft fracture with manipulation. This code is used when a healthcare provider manipulates and reduces the fragments of the fracture into the correct anatomical position and applies a long leg cast. X-rays may be taken post-treatment to ensure proper alignment.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27781 is: ‘Closed treatment of proximal fibula or shaft fracture; with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient.
2. The provider manipulates and reduces the fragments of the proximal fibula or shaft fracture into the correct anatomical position.
3. A long leg cast is applied to immobilize the fracture.
4. X-rays may be taken post-treatment to ensure proper alignment.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27781 is used for the closed treatment of a proximal fibula or shaft fracture with manipulation. It is important to note that this code is specifically for fractures that require manipulation to improve the position or alignment of the bones. The procedure must be performed by a qualified healthcare provider.

5. When to use CPT code 27781

CPT code 27781 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment of a proximal fibula or shaft fracture with manipulation. It should not be used for fractures that do not require manipulation or for fractures in other locations of the leg.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27781, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for closed treatment with manipulation
• Details of the manipulation procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Use of a long leg cast
• Post-treatment X-rays, if taken
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27781, ensure that the procedure performed includes manipulation of the proximal fibula or shaft fracture. It is important to use the correct code for the specific treatment provided. CPT code 27780 should be used for closed treatment of a proximal fibula or shaft fracture without manipulation. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines provided by insurance companies or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27781 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 healthcare provider manipulates and reduces the fragments of a proximal fibula fracture into the correct anatomical position and applies a long leg cast.
2. A patient with a shaft fracture undergoes closed treatment with manipulation by a qualified healthcare provider.
3. A healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a proximal fibula fracture and ensures proper alignment through post-treatment X-rays.
4. A patient with a proximal fibula fracture receives closed treatment with manipulation and is immobilized with a long leg cast.
5. A healthcare provider manipulates and reduces the fragments of a shaft fracture into the correct anatomical position and applies a long leg cast.
6. A qualified healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a proximal fibula fracture, followed by post-treatment X-rays to confirm proper alignment.
7. A patient undergoes closed treatment with manipulation for a proximal fibula fracture, and a long leg cast is applied for immobilization.
8. A healthcare provider manipulates and reduces the fragments of a shaft fracture into the correct anatomical position, followed by the application of a long leg cast.
9. A proximal fibula fracture is treated with closed treatment and manipulation by a qualified healthcare provider, ensuring proper alignment through post-treatment X-rays.
10. A patient with a proximal fibula fracture receives closed treatment with manipulation and is immobilized with a long leg cast.