CPT® Code 27165

The procedure described by CPT® Code 27165 refers to an osteotomy of the proximal femur, specifically targeting the intertrochanteric or subtrochanteric regions. An osteotomy is a surgical operation in which a bone is cut to shorten, lengthen, or change its alignment. This procedure is typically indicated for the correction of congenital or acquired deformities in the hip area, which may affect the patient's mobility and overall quality of life. The surgery begins with a skin incision made over the lateral aspect of the hip joint, allowing access to the underlying soft tissues. These tissues are carefully dissected to expose the proximal femur, which is the upper part of the thigh bone that connects to the hip joint. During the procedure, the femoral head, which is the ball-shaped top of the femur, is dislocated from the acetabulum, the socket of the hip joint. This dislocation is necessary to facilitate the osteotomy, where specific sites on the femur are marked for cutting. A series of precise cuts are made in the trochanteric and/or subtrochanteric regions, creating wedges of bone that can be repositioned to achieve the desired alignment. These wedges are strategically placed at the osteotomy sites to ensure that the angles of the bone are maintained correctly. To secure the bone in its new position, internal fixation devices such as pins, screws, or wires may be utilized. This internal fixation is crucial for stabilizing the bone during the healing process. Once the osteotomy is completed and the bone is secured, the femoral head is replaced back into the acetabulum, and the surgical incisions are closed in layers to promote optimal healing. In some cases, an external fixation system may be applied, either as a primary method or in conjunction with internal fixation, to provide additional support. Finally, a hip spica cast may be applied as needed to immobilize the hip joint and facilitate recovery.