27331 Explore/treat knee joint
Also known as: knee arthrotomy exploration, loose body removal knee
Exploration and treatment of knee joint pathology including loose body removal, synovectomy, or cartilage treatment.
In Plain Language
Knee surgery for loose pieces; Knee joint cleaning
Clinical Context
Used for intra-articular loose bodies, synovitis, or cartilage flaps causing mechanical symptoms.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.87 |
| Total RVU | 5.87 |
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 5.87, this code ranks in the 39th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27331?
CPT 27331 (Explore/treat knee joint) is a Surgery code. Exploration and treatment of knee joint pathology including loose body removal, synovectomy, or cartilage treatment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27331?
The work RVU for CPT 27331 is 5.87. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27331 used?
Used for intra-articular loose bodies, synovitis, or cartilage flaps causing mechanical symptoms.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.