Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: One of the surgeons in my practice coded an Akin procedure as 28310, but CPT lists it as 28298. Which code is correct? Florida Subscriber Answer: According to the Wheeless' Textbook of Orthopaedics, an Akin procedure is a closing wedge osteotomy of the first toe (hallux) proximal phalanx with excision of the medial eminence. It is performed to correct the condition hallux valgus (735.0), where the deformity is located at the interphalangeal joint. Code 28298 (Lapidus type procedure; by phalanx osteotomy) describes this procedure. Code 28310 (Osteotomy, shortening, angular or rotational correction; proximal phalanx, first toe [separate procedure]) can be reported when a phalanx osteotomy is performed for other types of toe deformities. You should note that 28310 has a "separate procedure" designation and as such should not be reported in conjunction with other procedures performed on the same foot.