2025 CPT code 27690

Transfer or transplant of a single tendon, with muscle redirection or rerouting; superficial (e.g., anterior tibial extensors into midfoot).

Refer to the official CPT coding guidelines, particularly those related to surgical procedures and tendon transfers.Pay close attention to instructions regarding modifiers, such as modifier 62 (two surgeons).

Modifiers may apply depending on the circumstances.Modifier 51 (multiple procedures) might be used if additional procedures are performed during the same session. Modifier 62 (two surgeons) is applicable if more than one surgeon participates. Specific modifier use should always be validated against current coding guidelines.

Medical necessity for tendon transfer is established when a patient exhibits significant functional impairment of the foot and ankle due to tendon dysfunction that cannot be adequately addressed through conservative measures. The procedure must be deemed appropriate based on the patient's condition, severity, and potential for improvement.The documentation must support medical necessity.

The orthopedic surgeon or qualified healthcare professional is responsible for performing the tendon transfer, including pre-operative planning, surgical execution, and post-operative care. This includes appropriate assessment, surgical technique (incisions, tendon harvesting, fixation), and patient education.

IMPORTANT 27692 (each additional tendon) should be reported in addition to 27690 for multiple tendon transfers.Code 28285 may be relevant in cases involving interphalangeal joint fusion, depending on the specifics of the procedure.

In simple words: This code describes a surgery where a tendon is moved from one place to another in the leg or ankle to fix a problem with a damaged or non-functioning tendon.The surgeon makes cuts, moves the healthy tendon to the affected area, and stitches it in place. A cast may be used afterward.

This CPT code encompasses the surgical procedure involving the transfer or transplant of a single tendon, including muscle redirection or rerouting.The procedure typically involves superficial tendons, such as transferring the anterior tibial tendon extensors into the midfoot.The goal is to restore function lost due to diseased, paralyzed, or injured tendons. The procedure includes incision(s), tendon harvesting, excision of the diseased tendon (if applicable), preparation and rerouting of the transferred tendon, fixation (suturing), wound closure, and application of a post-operative cast or immobilization device.

Example 1: A patient presents with a foot drop due to peroneal nerve palsy.The surgeon performs a tendon transfer of the anterior tibialis tendon to the peroneus brevis tendon to restore dorsiflexion., A patient suffers from a chronic rupture of the posterior tibial tendon resulting in pes planus deformity. The surgeon performs a tendon transfer to improve foot stability and function, potentially using the flexor digitorum longus or flexor hallucis longus., Following a traumatic injury to the ankle, a patient experiences significant weakness in ankle inversion and eversion.A tendon transfer procedure is performed to improve function by using the tibialis posterior or peroneus brevis.

* Pre-operative evaluation and assessment of the patient’s foot and ankle function, including range of motion and strength testing.* Documentation of the diagnosis leading to the need for tendon transfer.* Detailed operative report including the specific tendons involved, technique utilized, and post-operative instructions.* Post-operative assessment of the patient’s progress and recovery.* Imaging studies (e.g., X-rays) may be needed to assess underlying bone or joint issues.

** Accurate coding requires careful documentation of the specific tendons involved, the method of transfer, and any associated procedures.Always confirm the appropriateness of the code with the latest CPT guidelines and payer specific guidelines.

  • Revenue Code: P5B (Ambulatory Procedures - Musculoskeletal)
  • RVU: This information requires access to specific payer fee schedules and may vary based on location, provider type, and other factors. RVUs are not directly provided in the CPT code description.
  • Global Days : The global period for this procedure will vary depending on the payer and specific circumstances of the case.The length of the global period (e.g., 0, 10, or 90 days) is not specified within the code itself.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: A technical component (TC) modifier is not typically applicable to this code as it represents the entire procedure.
  • Fee Schedule : Fee schedule information is not directly included in the CPT code description.Consult payer-specific fee schedules for historical and current reimbursement data.
  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Podiatric Surgery
  • Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital (Inpatient or Outpatient), Office
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