27422 Revision of unstable kneecap
Also known as: patellar stabilization, soft tissue rebalancing, retinacular repair
Surgical revision of unstable patella through soft tissue rebalancing, retinacular procedures, or medial capsular advancement to improve patellar alignment and tracking.
In Plain Language
stabilizing a loose kneecap with tissue repair
Clinical Context
Used for patellar instability, lateral subluxation, and maltracking. Less invasive than bony procedures; often performed arthroscopically or minimally invasive.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.95 |
| Total RVU | 9.95 |
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 9.95, this code ranks in the 59th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27422?
CPT 27422 (Revision of unstable kneecap) is a Surgery code. Surgical revision of unstable patella through soft tissue rebalancing, retinacular procedures, or medial capsular advancement to improve patellar alignment and tracking.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27422?
The work RVU for CPT 27422 is 9.95. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine, Knee Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27422 used?
Used for patellar instability, lateral subluxation, and maltracking. Less invasive than bony procedures; often performed arthroscopically or minimally invasive.
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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.