27892 Decompression of leg
Also known as: leg fasciotomy, compartment release, anterior compartment decompression, peroneal compartment release
Decompression of the lower leg (anterior or peroneal compartment). This fasciotomy procedure releases fascial compartments in the lower leg to relieve compartment syndrome and restore tissue perfusion.
In Plain Language
relieving pressure in the leg; emergency leg decompression
Clinical Context
Emergency procedure for acute compartment syndrome following crush injury, fracture, or reperfusion injury. Prevents tissue necrosis and permanent disability by restoring microvascular circulation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.74 |
| Total RVU | 7.74 |
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 7.74, this code ranks in the 49th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 27892?
CPT 27892 (Decompression of leg) is a Surgery code. Decompression of the lower leg (anterior or peroneal compartment). This fasciotomy procedure releases fascial compartments in the lower leg to relieve compartment syndrome and restore tissue perfusion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 27892?
The work RVU for CPT 27892 is 7.74. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, trauma surgery, emergency medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 27892 used?
Emergency procedure for acute compartment syndrome following crush injury, fracture, or reperfusion injury. Prevents tissue necrosis and permanent disability by restoring microvascular circulation.
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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.