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Orthopedic Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Choose 27814 for Bimalleolar Fracture

Published on Mon Apr 19, 2004

Question: Our patient had a fractured lateral malleolus and ruptured ligaments on the medial side. The surgeon performed open treatment and applied a cast. I believe we should report 27792, but the surgeon thinks 27814 is the correct code. Who is right?

Tennessee Subscriber Answer: The surgeon is right. Your patient had a bimalleolar equivalent fracture (824.4-824.5), which is a fracture of the lateral malleolus with rupture of the deltoid ligament at its attachment on the medial malleolus.
 
You should report 27814 (Open treatment of bimalleolar ankle fracture, with or without internal or external fixation) for this procedure.
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