27438 Revise kneecap with implant
Also known as: patellar arthroplasty, patellar resurfacing, patellar prosthesis
Surgical revision of the patella with prosthetic implant placement, typically patellar resurfacing or arthroplasty, to treat severe patellofemoral arthritis or failed prior surgery.
In Plain Language
replacing part of or the whole kneecap with an implant
Clinical Context
Used for severe patellofemoral osteoarthritis, failed patellar procedures, or isolated patellofemoral arthritis in selected patients.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.59 |
| Total RVU | 11.59 |
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 11.59, this code ranks in the 64th 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 27438?
CPT 27438 (Revise kneecap with implant) is a Surgery code. Surgical revision of the patella with prosthetic implant placement, typically patellar resurfacing or arthroplasty, to treat severe patellofemoral arthritis or failed prior surgery.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27438?
The work RVU for CPT 27438 is 11.59. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Knee Surgery, Joint Replacement. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27438 used?
Used for severe patellofemoral osteoarthritis, failed patellar procedures, or isolated patellofemoral arthritis in selected patients.
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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.