27871 Fusion of tibiofibular joint
Also known as: tibiofibular fusion, syndesmotic fusion, high ankle fusion
Tibiofibular joint fusion performed via open surgical approach. This procedure arthrodeses the proximal or distal tibiofibular joint by removing articular surfaces and creating bone-to-bone fusion for syndesmotic instability.
In Plain Language
fusing bones between shin and calf; high ankle stability surgery
Clinical Context
Used for chronic syndesmotic instability, high ankle sprains, or severe tibiofibular arthritis. May be performed in conjunction with ankle fusion or as isolated procedure for syndesmotic pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.30 |
| Total RVU | 9.30 |
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 9.30, this code ranks in the 56th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27871?
CPT 27871 (Fusion of tibiofibular joint) is a Surgery code. Tibiofibular joint fusion performed via open surgical approach. This procedure arthrodeses the proximal or distal tibiofibular joint by removing articular surfaces and creating bone-to-bone fusion for syndesmotic instability.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27871?
The work RVU for CPT 27871 is 9.30. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery, trauma surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27871 used?
Used for chronic syndesmotic instability, high ankle sprains, or severe tibiofibular arthritis. May be performed in conjunction with ankle fusion or as isolated procedure for syndesmotic 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.