27826 Treat lower leg fracture
Also known as: open reduction lower leg, lower leg ORIF
Initial open treatment of lower leg fracture (tibia-fibula) with direct visualization and internal fixation.
In Plain Language
surgical repair of broken leg
Clinical Context
Indicated for displaced, comminuted, or open lower leg fractures requiring anatomic reduction and stable fixation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.82 |
| Total RVU | 10.82 |
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 10.82, this code ranks in the 62nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27826?
CPT 27826 (Treat lower leg fracture) is a Surgery code. Initial open treatment of lower leg fracture (tibia-fibula) with direct visualization and internal fixation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27826?
The work RVU for CPT 27826 is 10.82. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27826 used?
Indicated for displaced, comminuted, or open lower leg fractures requiring anatomic reduction and stable fixation.
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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.