Summary & Overview
CPT 27235: Percutaneous Fixation of Femoral Neck Fracture
CPT code 27235 denotes percutaneous internal fixation of a femoral neck fracture using screws and pins placed through the skin. This code captures a common orthopedic procedure used to stabilize fractures of the upper femur, an important intervention for reducing morbidity and preserving mobility, particularly in older adults and trauma patients. Nationally, accurate coding of this procedure affects surgical quality metrics, hospital reimbursement, and post-acute care planning.
Key payers included in this analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for CPT code 27235, typical sites of service, and the service type. The publication provides benchmarks where available, notes on common billing practices, and relevant policy or reimbursement updates that influence use of this code. Clinical considerations such as procedural intent and care setting are summarized to aid coding clarity.
This material is intended for national audiences including coders, billing managers, surgical departments, and policy analysts seeking a clear summary of what CPT code 27235 represents, why it matters in clinical and payment contexts, and where to look for additional billing and policy guidance. Data not available in the input is noted explicitly where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 27235 describes a surgical procedure for repair of a femoral neck fracture using percutaneous fixation with screws and pins placed through the skin. The procedure targets fractures at the upper end of the femur (the femoral neck) and is intended to stabilize the fracture and promote healing.
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Service type: Percutaneous internal fixation of femoral neck fracture
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Typical site of service: Inpatient or outpatient surgical settings, commonly performed in an operating room or procedure suite with fluoroscopic imaging support
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 78-year-old woman slips on ice and presents to the emergency department with acute right hip pain and inability to bear weight. Imaging confirms a displaced femoral neck fracture. Orthopedic trauma evaluates the patient, obtains preoperative labs, cardiac risk assessment, and informed consent. The patient is scheduled for percutaneous fixation using multiple cannulated screws under fluoroscopic guidance. The procedure is performed in an operating room or procedure suite with moderate sedation or general anesthesia. Postoperative workflow includes recovery room monitoring, weight-bearing instructions (often partial or toe-touch depending on fracture stability), pain control, physical therapy initiation, and discharge planning with thromboprophylaxis and fall-risk mitigation.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
50 | Bilateral procedure | Use when percutaneous fixation of both femoral necks is performed during the same operative session |
62 | Two surgeons | Use when two surgeons from the same specialty perform distinct portions of the procedure |