27496 Decompression of thigh/knee
Also known as: fasciotomy, compartment decompression
Surgical decompression of the thigh and knee region through fasciotomy, fluid drainage, or release of compartment pressure to treat acute compartment syndrome.
In Plain Language
releasing pressure in the thigh
Clinical Context
Used for acute compartment syndrome, crush injury, rhabdomyolysis, or high compartment pressure. Emergency procedure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.61 |
| Total RVU | 6.61 |
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 6.61, this code ranks in the 43rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27496?
CPT 27496 (Decompression of thigh/knee) is a Surgery code. Surgical decompression of the thigh and knee region through fasciotomy, fluid drainage, or release of compartment pressure to treat acute compartment syndrome.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27496?
The work RVU for CPT 27496 is 6.61. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27496 used?
Used for acute compartment syndrome, crush injury, rhabdomyolysis, or high compartment pressure. Emergency procedure.
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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.