2025 CPT code 27447
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System Feed
Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) involving replacement of the medial and lateral compartments of the knee, with or without patella resurfacing.
Modifiers may be applicable, such as 50 (Bilateral Procedure), 22 (Increased Procedural Services), or 76 (Repeat Procedure or Service by Same Physician) under specific circumstances.
Medical necessity is established by documenting a diagnosis that warrants surgical intervention, such as severe osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis, with associated functional limitations and pain that have not responded to conservative treatment options.
The physician performs the surgical procedure, including incision, bone and cartilage removal, implant placement, wound closure, and post-operative care.
In simple words: This procedure replaces the damaged parts of your knee joint with artificial implants to relieve pain and improve function.The surgeon will make an incision over your knee, remove the damaged bone and cartilage, and implant new artificial joint surfaces. The kneecap may also be replaced if necessary.
This procedure involves the replacement of the damaged weight-bearing surfaces of both the medial and lateral compartments in the knee joint using implants of metal or other strong materials.The patella may also be resurfaced with an implant.The procedure aims to relieve pain and disability in a severely damaged knee.
Example 1: A 70-year-old patient with severe osteoarthritis in both compartments of the knee, significantly impacting mobility and causing chronic pain, undergoes total knee arthroplasty with patellar resurfacing., A 55-year-old patient with rheumatoid arthritis and significant joint destruction in both compartments of the knee undergoes TKA. The patella is not resurfaced as it is not significantly damaged., A 65-year-old patient with post-traumatic arthritis following a previous knee injury undergoes TKA. Both the medial and lateral compartments are affected, and the patella is also resurfaced due to cartilage damage.
Documentation should include the medical necessity for the procedure (e.g., diagnosis, failed conservative treatment), operative report detailing the procedure performed, including implant details and any complications, and post-operative care plan.
** This code includes the application and removal of the first cast, splint, or traction device. Subsequent replacements may be billed separately.
- Global Days: Global days may apply.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC might apply when specific portions are performed by different qualified health care professional.
- Fee Schedule: Refer to historical Medicare fee schedules for past reimbursement information.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient Department