How To Use CPT Code 27831

CPT 27831 describes the closed treatment of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation, which requires anesthesia. 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 27831?

CPT 27831 can be used to describe the closed treatment of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation, which requires anesthesia. This code is used when the provider realigns the dislocated joint into its proper anatomical position without surgically opening the site of dislocation. The procedure involves the use of anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the reduction of the joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27831 is: ‘Closed treatment of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation; requiring anesthesia.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized to ensure comfort during the procedure.
2. The provider manipulates the dislocated tibiofibular joint, maneuvering it into proper anatomic alignment without making any incisions.
3. A cast is applied to secure the repair and confirm the placement by X-ray.
4. The area is immobilized to promote healing and prevent further dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27831 is used when the patient has a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation that requires closed treatment with anesthesia. The procedure is performed by a qualified provider who is able to manipulate the joint back into its proper position without the need for surgical intervention. The use of anesthesia is necessary to ensure patient comfort during the reduction process.

5. When to use CPT code 27831

CPT code 27831 should be used when the provider performs a closed treatment of a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation that requires anesthesia. It should not be reported if the procedure is performed without anesthesia, in which case CPT code 27830 would be appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 27831, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation
• Use of anesthesia during the procedure
• Details of the reduction process, including any manipulation techniques used
• Application of a cast to secure the repair
• Confirmation of proper placement by X-ray
• Documentation of immobilization to promote healing

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 27831, ensure that the procedure meets the requirements of closed treatment of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation with anesthesia. It is important to report this code accurately and not to report it if the procedure is performed without anesthesia (use CPT code 27830 in that case). Additionally, consider any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the use of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 27831 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 undergoes closed treatment of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation with anesthesia, and the provider successfully realigns the joint without the need for surgery.
2. Using anesthesia, the provider performs closed treatment on a patient with a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation, manipulating the joint back into its proper position and applying a cast for stabilization.
3. A patient with a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation receives closed treatment under anesthesia, and the provider confirms the proper placement of the joint using X-ray imaging.
4. During a closed treatment procedure, the provider reduces a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation with anesthesia, immobilizes the area, and ensures the patient’s comfort throughout the process.
5. A patient undergoes closed treatment of a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation with anesthesia, and the provider applies a cast to secure the repair and prevent further dislocation.
6. Using anesthesia, the provider manipulates a dislocated proximal tibiofibular joint back into its proper position without the need for surgical intervention.
7. A patient receives closed treatment for a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation under anesthesia, and the provider confirms the successful reduction of the joint through X-ray imaging.
8. The provider performs closed treatment on a patient with a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation, ensuring the patient’s comfort with the use of anesthesia throughout the procedure.
9. A patient undergoes closed treatment of a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation with anesthesia, and the provider immobilizes the area to promote healing and prevent further dislocation.
10. Using anesthesia, the provider manipulates a dislocated proximal tibiofibular joint back into its proper position and applies a cast to secure the repair.