27418 Repair degenerated kneecap
Also known as: patellar chondroplasty, patellar repair, patella resurfacing
Surgical repair of degenerated or malacic patella (kneecap) including chondroplasty, lateral facet resurfacing, or other patellar resurfacing to restore articulation with the femur.
In Plain Language
fixing kneecap cartilage damage; kneecap resurfacing
Clinical Context
Used for patellofemoral pain syndrome, chondromalacia patellae, lateral facet syndrome, or early patellar osteoarthritis. Aims to preserve patellar bone.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.31 |
| Total RVU | 11.31 |
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 11.31, this code ranks in the 63rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27418?
CPT 27418 (Repair degenerated kneecap) is a Surgery code. Surgical repair of degenerated or malacic patella (kneecap) including chondroplasty, lateral facet resurfacing, or other patellar resurfacing to restore articulation with the femur.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27418?
The work RVU for CPT 27418 is 11.31. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Knee Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27418 used?
Used for patellofemoral pain syndrome, chondromalacia patellae, lateral facet syndrome, or early patellar osteoarthritis. Aims to preserve patellar bone.
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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.