27828 Treat lower leg fracture
Also known as: complex open reduction lower leg, compression plate fixation leg
Initial open treatment of lower leg fracture with complex fixation including compression plating and possible fibular realignment.
In Plain Language
complex surgical repair of broken leg
Clinical Context
Performed for highly comminuted or complex lower leg fractures requiring compression plating and advanced techniques.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.97 |
| Total RVU | 17.97 |
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 17.97, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27828?
CPT 27828 (Treat lower leg fracture) is a Surgery code. Initial open treatment of lower leg fracture with complex fixation including compression plating and possible fibular realignment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27828?
The work RVU for CPT 27828 is 17.97. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27828 used?
Performed for highly comminuted or complex lower leg fractures requiring compression plating and advanced techniques.
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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.