27450 Incision of thigh
Also known as: thigh exploration, thigh drainage, thigh debridement
Surgical incision and exploration of the thigh including fascia and muscle compartments for drainage, irrigation, foreign body removal, or treatment of extensive soft tissue pathology.
In Plain Language
opening the thigh for treatment
Clinical Context
Used for extensive soft tissue infection, complex hematoma, muscle trauma, or compartment syndrome. Often requires irrigation and possible repeat procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.24 |
| Total RVU | 14.24 |
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 14.24, this code ranks in the 71st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27450?
CPT 27450 (Incision of thigh) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision and exploration of the thigh including fascia and muscle compartments for drainage, irrigation, foreign body removal, or treatment of extensive soft tissue pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27450?
The work RVU for CPT 27450 is 14.24. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27450 used?
Used for extensive soft tissue infection, complex hematoma, muscle trauma, or compartment syndrome. Often requires irrigation and possible repeat procedures.
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.