27610 Explore/treat ankle joint
Also known as: ankle arthrotomy, ankle arthroscopy, ankle exploration
Surgical exploration and treatment of the ankle joint including arthrotomy, arthroscopy, loose body removal, or arthroscopic procedures.
In Plain Language
surgery inside the ankle joint
Clinical Context
Used for loose bodies, synovitis, osteochondral lesions, or exploration of ankle joint pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.90 |
| Total RVU | 8.90 |
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 8.90, this code ranks in the 54th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27610?
CPT 27610 (Explore/treat ankle joint) is a Surgery code. Surgical exploration and treatment of the ankle joint including arthrotomy, arthroscopy, loose body removal, or arthroscopic procedures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27610?
The work RVU for CPT 27610 is 8.90. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Ankle and Foot Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27610 used?
Used for loose bodies, synovitis, osteochondral lesions, or exploration of ankle joint pathology.
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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.