27538 Treat knee fracture(s)
Also known as: tibial articular fracture, tibial plateau fracture
Treatment of a tibial fracture involving the articular surface of the knee joint, with closed reduction and conservative management.
In Plain Language
treating a knee break without surgery
Clinical Context
Used for selected articular tibial fractures managed conservatively with immobilization or traction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.96 |
| Total RVU | 4.96 |
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 4.96, this code ranks in the 34th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27538?
CPT 27538 (Treat knee fracture(s)) is a Surgery code. Treatment of a tibial fracture involving the articular surface of the knee joint, with closed reduction and conservative management.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27538?
The work RVU for CPT 27538 is 4.96. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27538 used?
Used for selected articular tibial fractures managed conservatively with immobilization or traction.
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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.