Wiki tka conversion

[samyjm13]

I need help on this one. Provider is doing a conversion "to" a TKA with removal of the unicompartment, there is no code for a conversion of this type. Would one use a 27447-22 or 27487-52, both have been suggested. I need some direction here.

Thanks everyone
Jeanne

 

[caromissunc1]

Your code would be a 27487. This includes the removal of the unicompartmental components. This is considered a revision because you are revising a femoral as well as a tibial component. I have used this code when I have coded these exact procedures. Have a great day!

 

[samyjm13]

thank you so much

 

[Karen78]

Your code would be a 27487. This includes the removal of the unicompartmental components. This is considered a revision because you are revising a femoral as well as a tibial component. I have used this code when I have coded these exact procedures. Have a great day!

Have you had denials with medicare on this particular revision code with the 52modifier?

 

[clark.amy86]

Have you had denials with medicare on this particular revision code with the 52modifier?

The only denials I have seen from Medicare on 27487.52 were requests for documentation ("lacks info"). I have had the best luck submitting the claim online using their claim submission feature and attaching the operative report (with a concise statement highlighted) and a copy of the claim. The turnaround time is much faster that way.

I code for a doctor who specializes in joint replacements and revisions so I see these procedures a lot.