27466 Lengthening of thigh bone
Also known as: femoral lengthening, distraction osteogenesis, bone lengthening
Surgical lengthening of the femur through osteotomy and gradual distraction osteogenesis using external or internal devices to correct limb length discrepancy.
In Plain Language
lengthening the thigh bone
Clinical Context
Used for significant limb length discrepancy, growth defects, or non-union requiring lengthening. Requires long-term fixation and gradual lengthening.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.08 |
| Total RVU | 22.08 |
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 22.08, this code ranks in the 85th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27466?
CPT 27466 (Lengthening of thigh bone) is a Surgery code. Surgical lengthening of the femur through osteotomy and gradual distraction osteogenesis using external or internal devices to correct limb length discrepancy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27466?
The work RVU for CPT 27466 is 22.08. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedics. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27466 used?
Used for significant limb length discrepancy, growth defects, or non-union requiring lengthening. Requires long-term fixation and gradual lengthening.
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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.