CPT® Code 27070

Partial excision, wing of ilium, symphysis pubis, or greater trochanter of femur, (craterization, saucerization) (eg, osteomyelitis or bone abscess); superficial

The CPT® Code 27070 refers to a surgical procedure known as partial excision of bone, specifically targeting areas such as the wing of the ilium, symphysis pubis, or greater trochanter of the femur. This procedure is commonly performed to address conditions like osteomyelitis or bone abscesses, which involve infection and necrosis of the bone. The terms craterization and saucerization describe the technique used during the procedure, where the surgeon removes infected and dead bone tissue to create a shallow depression, facilitating drainage from the infected area. The process begins with an incision through the skin and soft tissue to access the affected bone. The surgeon carefully resects any soft tissue sinus tracts and devitalized tissue before exposing the necrotic bone. A series of drill holes are created in the infected bone, and the bone between these holes is excavated using an osteotome to form an oval window. The extent of bone removal is determined by the severity of the infection. Additionally, a curette may be employed to clean out any remaining devitalized tissue from the medullary canal. The procedure continues until healthy bone is reached, indicated by the presence of punctate bleeding on the exposed surface. After thorough irrigation of the wound with sterile saline or an antibiotic solution, the surgical site is loosely closed, and a drain is placed to prevent fluid accumulation. It is important to note that CPT® Code 27070 is specifically designated for partial excision of superficial osteomyelitis or bone abscess, while CPT® Code 27071 is used for deeper infections involving subfascial or submuscular bone in the pelvis and hip joint.