Summary & Overview
CPT 27510: Closed Reduction of Distal Femur Condylar Fracture
CPT code 27510 represents closed reduction of a distal femur fracture involving the medial or lateral condyles. This orthopedic trauma procedure is a key acute-care intervention to restore condylar alignment and joint stability without open internal fixation. Nationally, accurate coding for 27510 affects hospital and ambulatory surgical center billing, aggregate procedure counts for trauma care, and quality-tracking for fracture management.
Major payers covered in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise clinical context for when 27510 is used, typical sites of service, and the implications for claims processing and payer coverage. The report also outlines common modifiers associated with surgical services and highlights areas where coding clarity influences reimbursement and utilization measurement.
The publication provides benchmarks and policy-relevant guidance for coding administrators and revenue cycle stakeholders, explains the clinical scenario that justifies use of 27510, and summarizes considerations relevant to payer adjudication. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 27510 describes a surgical procedure involving manipulation of fracture fragments and closed reduction of a distal femur fracture that involves the medial or lateral condyles. The procedure aims to restore proper alignment of the femoral condyles and provide joint stability.
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Service type: Orthopedic fracture management, closed reduction of distal femur condylar fracture
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Typical site of service: Hospital operating room or ambulatory surgical center for orthopedic trauma care
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is an adult who sustained a distal femur condylar fracture after a fall from standing height, high‑energy trauma, or a sports injury. The patient presents to the emergency department with acute knee pain, swelling, deformity, and inability to bear weight. Initial evaluation includes neurovascular exam, anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the femur and knee, and often CT to define articular fragment displacement. When closed management is appropriate (no open wound, fragment alignment amenable to manipulation, and no need for immediate internal fixation), an orthopaedic surgeon or trauma specialist performs closed reduction of the medial or lateral femoral condyle, often under conscious sedation or regional/general anesthesia in the operating room or procedure suite. Post‑reduction imaging confirms alignment of the condyles and stability; immobilization with a hinged knee brace, splint, or casting is applied. Follow‑up includes serial radiographs and clinical assessment to monitor maintenance of reduction and decide if delayed fixation is required.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
LT | Left side | When the procedure is performed on the patient's left distal femur condyle |
RT | Right side |