Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: How should we code a periacetabular osteotomy of the hip?

Virginia Subscriber

Answer: If the orthopedist performed the osteotomy without open reduction of the hip, you should use 27146 (Osteotomy, iliac, acetabular or innominate bone). According to CPT Assistant, "Code 27146 is intended to be reported only one time per bone, regardless of the number of sites in which osteotomy was performed. If the physician performs multiple osteotomies on separate bones (e.g., iliac and innominate), however, you would appropriately report 27146 two times, once for each bone."

If the orthopedist also performs an open reduction of the hip, submit your claim with 27147 (Osteotomy, iliac, acetabular or innominate bone; with open reduction of hip) instead.