Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

Question: Our provider performed a total ankle arthroplasty and talectomy. I know 27702 and 28130 bundle. But can I charge for both and bill for 28130 separately if a total talectomy was done?

Nebraska Subscriber

Answer: Because code 27702 (Arthroplasty, ankle; with implant) already includes the repair and implant, the talectomy, coded to 28130 (Talectomy (astragalectomy), cannot be billed separately and is considered part of the total ankle procedure already being billed. You would not be able to charge it separately on your claim.

The talectomy does allow unbundling per National Correct Coding Initiative (NCCI) edits, with an NCCI-approved modifier if there is a true reason for applying one — such as a separate encounter or incision occurring at a different site from the original incision — but it’s unlikely that documenting separate parts of a talectomy would be justified. Normally, the purpose of the talectomy is to put in the implant, which would justify the bundle.