ED Coding and Reimbursement Alert

Question: My ED provider performed closed treatment of a lateral and medial malleoli ankle fracture without manipulation. Can you tell me more about this type of fracture? Which CPT^® code should I report for this procedure?

Alabama Subscriber

Answer: You should report 27808 (Closed treatment of bimalleolar ankle fracture (eg, lateral and medial malleoli, or lateral and posterior malleoli or medial and posterior malleoli); without manipulation) on this claim.

Bimalleolar ankle fractures defined: A lateral and medial malleoli ankle fracture is an example of a bimalleolar fracture. A bimalleolar ankle fracture involves two bones: the medial, distal, end of the tibia — or medial malleolus; and the distal, outside, end of the fibula — or lateral malleolus. Additionally, a bimalleolar fracture can also be a break of the medial and posterior malleoli or the lateral and posterior malleoli.

Another code to consider for bimalleolar fracture treatment is 27810 (Closed treatment of bimalleolar ankle fracture (eg, lateral and medial malleoli, or lateral and posterior malleoli or medial and posterior malleoli); with manipulation) Always scrutinize the documentation to ensure you know exactly what was performed (e.g., manipulation, fixation) and where before selecting a code for the service.