27350 Removal of kneecap
Also known as: patellectomy, kneecap removal
Removal of patella through operative approach, total patellectomy for severe patellofemoral arthritis or trauma.
In Plain Language
Kneecap removal surgery; Patella removal
Clinical Context
Indicated for severe patellofemoral arthritis, nonunion of patellar fracture, or anterior knee pain unresponsive to conservative care.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.44 |
| Total RVU | 8.44 |
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 8.44, this code ranks in the 52nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27350?
CPT 27350 (Removal of kneecap) is a Surgery code. Removal of patella through operative approach, total patellectomy for severe patellofemoral arthritis or trauma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27350?
The work RVU for CPT 27350 is 8.44. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27350 used?
Indicated for severe patellofemoral arthritis, nonunion of patellar fracture, or anterior knee pain unresponsive to conservative care.
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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.