Summary & Overview
CPT 27704: Removal of Orthopedic Implant for Weight-Bearing Pain
CPT code 27704 denotes surgical removal of a previously placed implant performed to address pain and functional problems that occur with weight bearing. This code is used in cases where hardware removal is clinically indicated because the implant is a source of ongoing pain or interferes with ambulation. Nationally, implant removal procedures affect postoperative care pathways, device lifecycle considerations, and surgical utilization patterns.
Key payers in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise clinical context for when CPT code 27704 is reported, typical sites of service, and the administrative considerations that affect coverage and billing. The publication summarizes common modifiers associated with this code and highlights relevant claims and coding nuances.
This report is intended to inform clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts about the purpose and use of CPT code 27704, expected care settings, and the types of benchmarks and policy updates that can affect reimbursement and prior authorization practices. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 27704 describes the surgical removal of a previously placed implant used to treat pain and discomfort related to weight bearing. The procedure involves explantation of orthopedic hardware that is causing symptomatic issues when the patient bears weight on the affected limb.
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Service type: Surgical explantation of orthopedic implant to relieve weight-bearing pain
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Typical site of service: Ambulatory surgical center or hospital operating room
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient is an adult who previously underwent surgical fixation of an ankle or hindfoot fracture or osteotomy with placement of an implant (for example, screws, plates, or intramedullary hardware) and now presents with localized pain or discomfort during weight bearing attributable to the retained implant. The patient often reports focal tenderness over the implant site, pain when walking or bearing weight, and may have prominence of hardware under the skin. Preoperative evaluation includes history and focused physical exam, weight-bearing radiographs (to assess implant position and fracture union), and review of prior operative reports. Conservative measures such as activity modification and analgesics have been attempted and failed. The provider schedules removal of the implanted device under regional or general anesthesia in an operating room or ambulatory surgical center. Intraoperative steps include incision at prior scar, dissection to hardware, removal of screws/plates or other devices, irrigation, and wound closure. Postoperative care includes short-term limited weight bearing as indicated, wound care, pain control, and follow-up to assess wound healing and resolution of symptoms.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
51 | Multiple procedures | When more than one distinct procedure is performed during the same session in addition to the implant removal |