Summary & Overview
CPT 27832: Open Reduction and Wire Fixation of Proximal Tibiofibular Dislocation
CPT code 27832 represents an open surgical procedure for reduction and wire fixation of a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation. This code captures definitive operative management for a relatively uncommon but potentially limb-threatening injury that requires precise anatomic reduction and stabilization. Nationally, accurate coding for this procedure matters for clinical documentation, outcomes tracking, and correct payment for operative orthopedic services.
Key payers addressed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find an overview of the clinical context for the procedure, typical sites of service, and the elements that coders and billing teams should confirm in the medical record to support use of this code. The publication summarizes common payer coverage considerations and highlights benchmarks for utilization and claim adjudication where available.
The analysis outlines the code’s clinical intent and typical operative steps, presents payer coverage scope, and identifies areas where additional documentation usually clarifies medical necessity. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable, including specific ICD-10 pairings and related procedural codes.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 27832 describes surgical treatment of a proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation. The procedure involves a surgical open reduction of the dislocated proximal tibiofibular joint with realignment and fixation using wires.
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Service type: Open surgical fixation of proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation
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Typical site of service: Operating room or surgical suite in an inpatient or outpatient hospital setting, or ambulatory surgery center
Data not available in the input for associated taxonomies, ICD-10 diagnoses, and related codes.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 28-year-old male presents to the emergency department after a high-energy lower-leg injury sustained during a soccer match. He reports immediate lateral knee pain, swelling, and inability to bear weight. Physical exam demonstrates deformity and tenderness at the proximal lateral leg near the knee; neurovascular exam is intact. Radiographs and CT confirm a posterior-lateral proximal tibiofibular joint dislocation with malalignment and associated capsular disruption. The patient is taken to the operating room for an open reduction of the proximal tibiofibular joint and percutaneous or open fixation with Kirschner wires to restore joint congruity and stability. Intraoperative steps include surgical exposure of the dislocated joint, debridement of interposed tissue if present, manual realignment of the tibiofibular articulation, temporary fluoroscopic confirmation of reduction, and fixation with one or more transfixing wires or pins. Postoperative workflow includes recovery room monitoring, neurovascular checks, immobilization in a knee immobilizer or cast, radiographic confirmation of hardware position, discharge instructions with non-weight-bearing precautions, and outpatient orthopedic follow-up for wound check and planned hardware removal if indicated.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component | Use when billing only the surgeon's professional component if global charge is split between facility and physician. |