CPT® Code 27284

The procedure described by CPT® Code 27284 refers to arthrodesis of the hip joint, which is a surgical technique aimed at fusing the hip joint to alleviate pain and restore function. This procedure is typically indicated for specific patient populations, such as young individuals engaged in heavy labor or those who have experienced unsuccessful outcomes from hip replacement surgeries. The surgical approach involves making a lateral incision over the hip joint to access the femoral head and acetabulum. During the procedure, the femoral head is dislocated from the acetabulum, allowing the surgeon to thoroughly debride the articular surfaces down to the bleeding cancellous bone, which is essential for promoting bone healing and fusion. To facilitate the fusion process, an additional incision is made over the iliac crest to harvest cancellous bone, which is then prepared and packed into the joint space. This grafting material plays a crucial role in stimulating bone growth and ensuring a successful fusion. After the cancellous bone is placed, the femoral head is repositioned into the hip socket, and a plate and screw device is applied to stabilize the joint. This stabilization is vital as it allows the bones to heal together, ultimately leading to the obliteration of the joint and the fusion of the femoral head with the acetabulum. It is important to note that this code is specifically used for hip joint arthrodesis performed without subtrochanteric osteotomy, which is a separate procedure indicated by CPT® Code 27286 when additional osteotomy is performed. Overall, arthrodesis of the hip joint is a complex surgical intervention that requires careful planning and execution to achieve optimal outcomes for patients with specific indications for the procedure.