27860 Fixation of ankle joint
Also known as: percutaneous ankle fixation, percutaneous pinning, ankle ORIF percutaneous
Percutaneous skeletal fixation of ankle joint without reduction. This minimally invasive procedure uses percutaneous pins or wires to stabilize ankle fractures or dislocations through small incisions.
In Plain Language
stabilizing ankle with small pins; temporary ankle support
Clinical Context
Useful for unstable ankle fractures or select dislocations where anatomic reduction can be achieved without open dissection. Allows early mobilization and is useful in patients with compromised soft tissues.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.33 |
| Total RVU | 2.33 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.33, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27860?
CPT 27860 (Fixation of ankle joint) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous skeletal fixation of ankle joint without reduction. This minimally invasive procedure uses percutaneous pins or wires to stabilize ankle fractures or dislocations through small incisions.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27860?
The work RVU for CPT 27860 is 2.33. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, trauma surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 27860 used?
Useful for unstable ankle fractures or select dislocations where anatomic reduction can be achieved without open dissection. Allows early mobilization and is useful in patients with compromised soft tissues.
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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.