27487 Revise/replace knee joint
Also known as: complex knee revision, extensive TKA revision, revision total knee
Surgical revision of a total knee arthroplasty with extensive reconstruction including prosthetic replacement, bone grafting, and possible ligamentous reconstruction.
In Plain Language
major revision of a knee replacement
Clinical Context
Used for complex knee revision with bone loss, instability, or multiple failed components requiring extensive reconstruction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 26.43 |
| Total RVU | 26.43 |
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 26.43, this code ranks in the 90th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27487?
CPT 27487 (Revise/replace knee joint) is a Surgery code. Surgical revision of a total knee arthroplasty with extensive reconstruction including prosthetic replacement, bone grafting, and possible ligamentous reconstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27487?
The work RVU for CPT 27487 is 26.43. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Joint Replacement. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27487 used?
Used for complex knee revision with bone loss, instability, or multiple failed components requiring extensive reconstruction.
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.