27881 Amputation of lower leg
Also known as: leg amputation mid-level, transtibial amputation, below-knee amputation higher level
Amputation of the lower leg at a more proximal level (mid-tibial or higher). This procedure removes the lower leg at a higher level than ankle disarticulation with appropriate soft tissue coverage.
In Plain Language
removing more of the lower leg; mid-leg amputation
Clinical Context
Used when infection, trauma, or vascular compromise extends above the ankle. More proximal amputations may result in greater functional limitations with prosthetics but are necessary when distal tissue is not viable.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 13.13 |
| Total RVU | 13.13 |
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 13.13, this code ranks in the 68th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27881?
CPT 27881 (Amputation of lower leg) is a Surgery code. Amputation of the lower leg at a more proximal level (mid-tibial or higher). This procedure removes the lower leg at a higher level than ankle disarticulation with appropriate soft tissue coverage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27881?
The work RVU for CPT 27881 is 13.13. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, vascular surgery, trauma surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27881 used?
Used when infection, trauma, or vascular compromise extends above the ankle. More proximal amputations may result in greater functional limitations with prosthetics but are necessary when distal tissue is not viable.
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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.