AHA Coding Clinic® for HCPCS - 2016 Quarter 1; Ask the Editor
Patellofemoral joint replacement
Patient presents to have a left patellofemoral replacement. The surface of the femur was prepared for insertion of the femoral trochlear implant. Then the surface of the patella was resected for the insertion of the patellar button. The bone cement was mixed and the femoral trochlear implant was cemented into place along with the patellar button component and held into place until cement hardened. There was good alignment and the area was closed. We want to report 27438 and 27442 but an NCCI edit exists. How is a patellofemoral joint replacement reported? ...
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Article Overview
This premium coding article addresses patellofemoral joint replacement billing and the CPT reporting question that can arise when femoral and patellar components are implanted during the same procedure. It is intended for coders, billers, and orthopedic revenue cycle staff who need a high-level understanding of how the service is handled, including the relevance of an NCCI edit and the CPT framework discussed in the article.
Why This Topic Matters
Patellofemoral joint replacement can create coding confusion when multiple components are placed during one surgery, especially when National Correct Coding Initiative edits are present. Understanding the article helps readers identify the appropriate CPT reporting context and avoid common claim submission errors.
What You Will Learn
- The coding topic addressed in a patellofemoral joint replacement case
- How the article frames CPT reporting for the procedure
- Why an NCCI edit is relevant to the coding question
- What general implant/component considerations are discussed in the coding context
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Orthopedic surgery billers
- Revenue cycle staff
- Coding auditors
- Practice administrators
Codes Discussed
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