2025 CPT code 27517
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Fracture and/or Dislocation Procedures Musculoskeletal System Feed
Closed treatment of distal femoral epiphyseal separation with manipulation; with or without skin or skeletal traction.
Modifiers may be appended to this code as needed, to indicate additional services or circumstances (e.g., 54 for surgical care only, 76 for repeat procedure, etc.).
Medical necessity for this procedure is established when a distal femoral epiphyseal separation is present and requires reduction to restore anatomical alignment and prevent complications such as growth disturbances or joint instability.The choice between closed and open reduction depends on several factors, including the displacement and stability of the fracture. The closed technique is preferred when possible due to its less invasive nature.
The physician or qualified healthcare professional is responsible for the manual manipulation of the femoral epiphyseal separation to achieve proper alignment. They also apply and monitor the cast and/or traction device, ensuring adequate immobilization and monitoring the healing process.Postoperative care and cast removal are also included in the clinical responsibility.
- Musculoskeletal System
- Fracture and/or Dislocation Procedures on the Femur (Thigh Region) and Knee Joint
In simple words: This code covers the non-surgical treatment of a separated growth plate in the lower part of the thigh bone.The doctor will gently move the bone back into place, possibly using traction (pulling) to hold it in position. A cast will be applied to keep the bone stable during healing, and it will be removed after several weeks.
This CPT code encompasses the closed treatment of a distal femoral epiphyseal separation, which involves manually manipulating the separated epiphysis to restore its correct anatomical alignment.The procedure may include the application of skin or skeletal traction to maintain the reduction and provide further stabilization.A cast is applied, extending above and below the knee (potentially up to the hip in young children), to prevent excessive motion.The cast and traction device (if used) are subsequently removed after approximately three to four weeks, once adequate fixation of the epiphysis is confirmed.
Example 1: A 10-year-old boy falls from a tree, sustaining a displaced distal femoral epiphyseal separation.The physician performs a closed reduction with manipulation under general anesthesia, applying skeletal traction and a long leg cast.Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and assess for any complications., A 12-year-old girl suffers a distal femoral epiphyseal separation during a soccer game.The physician performs a closed reduction with manipulation and applies a long leg cast.No skeletal traction is required.The patient is instructed on proper cast care and weight-bearing restrictions., A 15-year-old athlete sustains a distal femoral epiphyseal separation during a sporting event. The physician performs closed reduction with manipulation and utilizes skin traction in addition to a long leg cast.The patient is closely monitored for neurovascular compromise and receives regular physical therapy.
* Preoperative and postoperative diagnoses and assessments.* Detailed description of the fracture and its displacement.* Documentation of the closed reduction technique, including manipulation and traction (if used).* Specifications of the applied cast and traction device.* Radiographic images before and after the reduction to confirm proper alignment.* Notes on the patient's weight-bearing status and activity restrictions.* Documentation of any complications or follow-up appointments.
** This code should not be used if an open reduction and internal fixation is performed.Always refer to the most current CPT coding guidelines and payer specific policies for appropriate billing practices.
- Global Days : The global period for this procedure typically covers the postoperative care associated with the fracture reduction and casting.The duration may vary depending on payer guidelines and the complexity of the case.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: A technical component (TC) modifier is generally not applicable to this code as it is a complete procedure.
- Fee Schedule : Historical fee schedule data will vary by payer and geographic location.Consult relevant fee schedules for specific years.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedics
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center