27488 Removal of knee prosthesis
Also known as: prosthesis removal, TKA removal, component removal
Surgical removal of a knee prosthesis or prosthetic components without immediate replacement, typically for infection, loosening, or spacer placement.
In Plain Language
removing a knee implant
Clinical Context
Used for infected prostheses (often staged removal before reimplantation), severe loosening, or temporary spacer placement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.16 |
| Total RVU | 17.16 |
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 17.16, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27488?
CPT 27488 (Removal of knee prosthesis) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of a knee prosthesis or prosthetic components without immediate replacement, typically for infection, loosening, or spacer placement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27488?
The work RVU for CPT 27488 is 17.16. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Joint Replacement, Surgical Infection. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27488 used?
Used for infected prostheses (often staged removal before reimplantation), severe loosening, or temporary spacer placement.
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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.