2025 CPT code 27822
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Fracture and/or Dislocation Procedures on the Leg (Tibia and Fibula) and Ankle Joint Musculoskeletal System Feed
Open treatment of trimalleolar ankle fracture; internal fixation of medial and/or lateral malleolus; without fixation of posterior malleolus.
Modifiers may apply based on specific circumstances of the procedure.For example, modifier 51 (multiple procedures) might be used if other procedures were performed concurrently, and modifier 76 (repeat procedure by the same physician) may be used if a re-reduction was performed by the same physician.
Medical necessity for this procedure is established by the presence of a displaced or unstable trimalleolar ankle fracture.The need for surgical intervention is typically based on the degree of displacement, the risk of malunion, and the potential impact on ankle function.
The orthopedic surgeon is responsible for the pre-operative planning, surgical procedure, and post-operative care. This includes patient evaluation, surgical incision and exploration of the fracture, reduction of the fracture fragments, internal fixation, wound closure, and application of a cast or brace. Post-operative imaging and follow-up care are also within their responsibility.
- Musculoskeletal System
- Fracture and/or Dislocation Procedures on the Leg (Tibia and Fibula) and Ankle Joint
In simple words: This code represents a surgery to fix a broken ankle.The doctor will make an incision, realign the broken bones, and use plates, screws, or pins to hold two of the three broken parts together. The back part of the ankle may not be fixed with hardware in this particular procedure.
This CPT code, 27822, describes the open surgical treatment of a trimalleolar ankle fracture.The procedure involves internal fixation (using plates, screws, wires, or pins) of the medial and/or lateral malleoli.Crucially,fixation of the posterior malleolus is not included in this specific code. This surgical intervention is typically indicated for unstable fractures requiring additional support for proper alignment and healing.
Example 1: A 35-year-old male sustains a trimalleolar ankle fracture in a skiing accident.Open reduction and internal fixation of the medial and lateral malleoli is performed using plates and screws. The posterior malleolus is treated non-operatively., A 60-year-old female falls and fractures her ankle, resulting in a displaced trimalleolar fracture.Open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws are used to stabilize the medial and lateral malleoli. The posterior fragment is stable enough to not require fixation., A 22-year-old male athlete suffers a severe ankle injury during a football game. The injury is diagnosed as a trimalleolar fracture with significant displacement. Open reduction is performed. The medial and lateral malleoli are stabilized using screws and plates.The posterior malleolus is managed non-operatively due to its stable position.
* Pre-operative diagnostic imaging (X-rays) showing the trimalleolar fracture.* Operative report detailing the surgical approach, reduction techniques, internal fixation materials used, and assessment of the posterior malleolus.* Post-operative imaging (X-rays) to confirm fracture alignment and fixation stability.* Detailed description of any complications encountered during or after the surgery.
** This code specifically excludes fixation of the posterior malleolus. If fixation of the posterior malleolus is performed, another, more comprehensive, CPT code should be utilized.Always refer to the most current CPT manual for the most accurate coding guidelines and updates.
- Revenue Code: P3D (MAJOR PROCEDURE, ORTHOPEDIC - OTHER)
- RVU: The relative value units (RVUs) for CPT code 27822 vary based on geographic location, facility type (inpatient/outpatient), and payer.Consult the appropriate fee schedule for the specific RVU values and payment calculations.
- Global Days : The global period for this procedure depends on the payer and specific circumstances.Refer to the payer's guidelines for the exact duration of the global period.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: A Technical Component (TC) modifier is not typically applicable to this code as it represents a complete surgical procedure.
- Fee Schedule : Historical fee schedules vary widely based on location, payer, and year.Consulting historical fee schedules is advisable for retrospective analysis or audit purposes.These data are usually available from official payer resources.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Outpatient Hospital