27161 Incision of neck of femur
Also known as: femoral neck incision, fenestration femur
Incision of the neck of femur, including drilling or fenestration to relieve pressure or treat pathological conditions of the femoral neck.
In Plain Language
Hip bone cut; Femoral neck opening
Clinical Context
Used for decompression of avascular necrosis, treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis, or relief of increased intraosseous pressure in femoral neck pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.44 |
| Total RVU | 17.44 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 17.44, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27161?
CPT 27161 (Incision of neck of femur) is a Surgery code. Incision of the neck of femur, including drilling or fenestration to relieve pressure or treat pathological conditions of the femoral neck.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27161?
The work RVU for CPT 27161 is 17.44. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hip Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27161 used?
Used for decompression of avascular necrosis, treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis, or relief of increased intraosseous pressure in femoral neck pathology.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.