How To Use CPT Code 27894

CPT 27894 describes the procedure of decompression fasciotomy on the leg, specifically the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment(s), with debridement of nonviable muscle and/or nerve. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27894?

CPT 27894 is used to describe a surgical procedure known as decompression fasciotomy. This procedure involves cutting into the fascia surrounding multiple compartments of the lower leg, including the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as at least one of the posterior compartments. During the procedure, the provider also removes any dead or damaged tissue that is not able to survive.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27894 is: ‘Decompression fasciotomy, leg; anterior and/or lateral, and posterior compartment(s), with debridement of nonviable muscle and/or nerve.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making incisions in each side of the lower leg, where the anterior and lateral compartments meet.
2. Using these incisions, the provider cuts into the fascia over the compartments to release the anterior and/or lateral compartments.
3. A second incision is made to access the posterior compartments, and the provider releases the deep and/or superficial posterior compartments.
4. Throughout the procedure, the provider takes care to protect nerves and vessels.
5. The provider also checks the muscle in each compartment and removes any nonviable tissue that cannot survive.
6. If necessary, the provider may measure the compartment pressure before covering the wounds with a sterile dressing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27894 is typically performed on patients who require decompression fasciotomy of the leg, specifically in the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment(s). The procedure is indicated when there is a need to release the fascia surrounding these compartments and remove nonviable muscle and/or nerve tissue. It is important to note that this code should not be used if the provider does not document debridement with fascial decompression.

5. When to use CPT code 27894

CPT code 27894 should be used when the provider performs decompression fasciotomy on the leg, involving the anterior and/or lateral compartments, as well as the posterior compartment(s), and includes debridement of nonviable muscle and/or nerve tissue. It is important to review the surrounding codes and consider other options if the procedure does not meet these specific criteria.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27894, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for decompression fasciotomy
• Specific compartments involved in the procedure
• Details of the debridement performed, including the removal of nonviable muscle and/or nerve tissue
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information, such as compartment pressure measurements or specific techniques used
• Provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27894, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to note that this code requires debridement, and if the provider does not document debridement with fascial decompression, other codes should be considered. Additionally, review the surrounding codes for anterior/lateral compartments only (27892) or posterior compartments only (27893) if applicable.

8. Historical information

CPT 27894 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes decompression fasciotomy on their leg, involving the anterior and lateral compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
2. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient’s leg, specifically targeting the posterior compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
3. During a surgical procedure, the provider releases the anterior and lateral compartments of a patient’s leg through decompression fasciotomy, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
4. A patient with compartment syndrome undergoes decompression fasciotomy on their leg, involving both the anterior and posterior compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
5. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient’s leg, targeting the lateral and posterior compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
6. During a surgical procedure, the provider releases the anterior compartment of a patient’s leg through decompression fasciotomy, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
7. A patient with necrotizing fasciitis undergoes decompression fasciotomy on their leg, involving the anterior and lateral compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
8. A provider performs decompression fasciotomy on a patient’s leg, specifically targeting the posterior compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
9. During a surgical procedure, the provider releases the anterior and lateral compartments of a patient’s leg through decompression fasciotomy, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.
10. A patient with compartment syndrome undergoes decompression fasciotomy on their leg, involving both the anterior and posterior compartments, with debridement of nonviable muscle and nerve tissue.