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Official Description

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

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 27071 involves a partial excision of bone, specifically targeting areas such as the wing of the ilium, symphysis pubis, or greater trochanter of the femur. This surgical intervention is commonly referred to as craterization or saucerization. The primary purpose of this procedure is to address conditions such as osteomyelitis or bone abscess, which are infections that can lead to the destruction of bone tissue. During the procedure, the physician removes infected and necrotic bone to create a shallow depression in the bone surface, facilitating drainage from the infected area. This is crucial for promoting healing and preventing further complications associated with the infection. The surgical approach involves making an incision through the skin and soft tissue to access the affected bone, followed by the careful resection of any soft tissue sinus tracts and devitalized tissue. The procedure is performed in a deep anatomical plane, either subfascial or intramuscular, ensuring that all infected and necrotic tissue is adequately addressed. The extent of bone removal is determined by the severity of the infection, and meticulous care is taken to ensure that healthy tissue is preserved while effectively treating the infected area.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

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