How To Use CPT Code 27884

CPT 27884 describes the procedure for amputation of the leg through the tibia and fibula, specifically for secondary closure or scar revision. 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 27884?

CPT 27884 involves the closure of a surgical wound that was left open after a below knee amputation or the revision of a scar on the stump to allow for the use of an artificial leg. This procedure is typically performed when there is an infection or a need to improve the appearance or comfort of the scar.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27884 is: ‘Amputation, leg, through tibia and fibula; secondary closure or scar revision.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is prepared and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The provider removes the dressings from an open wound or excises the scar from a healed stump.
3. The area is irrigated with antibiotic solution to prevent infection.
4. The provider trims the skin edges and soft tissues.
5. The skin over the stump is closed to facilitate healing and improve the appearance of the scar.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27884 is performed when there is a need to close a surgical wound that was left open after a below knee amputation, often due to infection. It can also be used for scar revision to enhance the appearance or alleviate discomfort of the stump. This procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional.

5. When to use CPT code 27884

CPT code 27884 should be used when a provider performs secondary closure or scar revision for a leg amputation through the tibia and fibula. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed unilaterally, on one side only. If the provider performs the procedure bilaterally, modifier 50 should be appended to the code or reported twice with modifier 50 appended to the second code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27884, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure, such as infection or scar revision
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific tissues involved
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27884, ensure that the procedure is performed unilaterally and that the documentation supports the need for secondary closure or scar revision. It is important to check with the payer for any specific guidelines or requirements. Additionally, consider the potential for multiple surgery reduction and confirm with the payer.

8. Historical information

CPT 27884 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 provider performs secondary closure for a patient who had an open wound after a below knee amputation due to infection.
2. A patient undergoes scar revision on their stump to improve the appearance and alleviate discomfort.
3. A provider performs secondary closure for a patient who had an open wound after a below knee amputation due to infection.
4. A patient undergoes scar revision on their stump to improve the appearance and alleviate discomfort.
5. A provider performs secondary closure for a patient who had an open wound after a below knee amputation due to infection.
6. A patient undergoes scar revision on their stump to improve the appearance and alleviate discomfort.
7. A provider performs secondary closure for a patient who had an open wound after a below knee amputation due to infection.
8. A patient undergoes scar revision on their stump to improve the appearance and alleviate discomfort.
9. A provider performs secondary closure for a patient who had an open wound after a below knee amputation due to infection.
10. A patient undergoes scar revision on their stump to improve the appearance and alleviate discomfort.