27870 Fusion of ankle joint open
Also known as: ankle fusion, ankle arthrodesis, tibiotalar fusion, TAF, ankle fuse
Ankle joint fusion performed via open arthrotomy approach. This procedure arthrodeses the ankle joint by removing articular cartilage and securing bone surfaces to eliminate motion and treat arthritis or severe instability.
In Plain Language
fusing ankle bones together; permanent ankle stiffening surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for end-stage ankle arthritis, chronic instability, or severe fracture sequelae. Eliminates ankle motion but provides stability and pain relief for patients with disabling arthritis refractory to conservative treatment.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 15.02 |
| Total RVU | 15.02 |
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 15.02, this code ranks in the 73rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27870?
CPT 27870 (Fusion of ankle joint open) is a Surgery code. Ankle joint fusion performed via open arthrotomy approach. This procedure arthrodeses the ankle joint by removing articular cartilage and securing bone surfaces to eliminate motion and treat arthritis or severe instability.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27870?
The work RVU for CPT 27870 is 15.02. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27870 used?
Performed for end-stage ankle arthritis, chronic instability, or severe fracture sequelae. Eliminates ankle motion but provides stability and pain relief for patients with disabling arthritis refractory to conservative treatment.
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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.