How To Use CPT Code 27827

CPT 27827 describes the open treatment of a fracture of the weight bearing articular surface or portion of the distal tibia, specifically the tibia only. 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 27827?

CPT 27827 can be used to describe the open treatment of a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface or portion of the distal tibia. This procedure involves surgically fixing the fracture by securing the tibia with plates and screws, wires, or pins. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to fractures of the tibia only.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27827 is: ‘Open treatment of fracture of weight bearing articular surface/portion of distal tibia (eg, pilon or tibial plafond), with internal fixation, when performed; of tibia only.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made at the ankle joint to access the fracture site.
3. The provider identifies and explores the fracture site.
4. The fractured fragments of the cartilage surface of the tibia are placed in the correct anatomical position.
5. The provider applies fixation to the tibia using plates, screws, wires, or pins to help retain the fractured fragments in the correct anatomical position.
6. The site is irrigated to remove any debris or contaminants.
7. Hemostasis, the stoppage of all bleeding, is achieved.
8. The incision is closed, and a cast or brace may be applied to help stabilize the fracture.
9. Post-treatment X-rays may be taken to ensure the correct alignment of the fracture.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27827 is performed on patients with a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface or portion of the distal tibia. The procedure is specifically for fractures of the tibia only. The provider must use internal fixation, such as plates, screws, wires, or pins, to stabilize the fracture.

5. When to use CPT code 27827

CPT code 27827 should be used when the provider performs open treatment of a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface or portion of the distal tibia, specifically the tibia only. It is important to ensure that the procedure involves internal fixation using plates, screws, wires, or pins.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27827, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for open treatment of the fracture
• Details of the procedure, including the specific anatomical location and the use of internal fixation
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Post-treatment X-rays, if taken, to confirm correct alignment
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27827, ensure that the procedure involves open treatment of a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface or portion of the distal tibia, specifically the tibia only. The provider must use internal fixation, such as plates, screws, wires, or pins. It is important to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer regarding documentation and reporting of this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 27827 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. On January 1, 2008, the code underwent a change to include the option of using external fixation in addition to internal fixation for the treatment of fractures in the weight bearing articular surface or portion of the distal tibia.

9. Examples

1. A patient sustains a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface of the distal tibia and undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using plates and screws.
2. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture in the portion of the distal tibia, specifically the tibia only, using wires and pins for internal fixation.
3. A patient presents with a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface of the distal tibia and undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using plates and screws, followed by the application of a cast for stabilization.
4. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture in the portion of the distal tibia, specifically the tibia only, using wires and pins for internal fixation, and takes post-treatment X-rays to confirm correct alignment.
5. A patient sustains a fracture in the weight bearing articular surface of the distal tibia and undergoes open treatment with internal fixation using plates and screws, followed by the application of a brace for stabilization.
6. A provider performs open treatment of a fracture in the portion of the distal tibia, specifically the tibia only, using wires and pins for internal fixation, and takes post-treatment X-rays to confirm correct alignment and the success of the procedure.