27600 Decompression of lower leg
Also known as: lower leg fasciotomy, compartment decompression
Surgical decompression of the lower leg including fasciotomy of one or more compartments to relieve compartment syndrome or soft tissue pressure.
In Plain Language
releasing pressure in the lower leg
Clinical Context
Used for acute compartment syndrome, crush injury, or high compartment pressure in lower leg. Emergency procedure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.88 |
| Total RVU | 5.88 |
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 5.88, this code ranks in the 39th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27600?
CPT 27600 (Decompression of lower leg) is a Surgery code. Surgical decompression of the lower leg including fasciotomy of one or more compartments to relieve compartment syndrome or soft tissue pressure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27600?
The work RVU for CPT 27600 is 5.88. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27600 used?
Used for acute compartment syndrome, crush injury, or high compartment pressure in lower leg. 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.