CPT® Code 27364

The CPT® Code 27364 refers to the radical resection of a tumor located in the soft tissue of the thigh or knee area, specifically when the tumor measures 5 cm or greater. Soft tissues encompass a variety of structures, including muscles, tendons, fat, blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves, and the tissues that surround joints. Tumors that arise in these soft tissues can be classified as either benign or malignant. However, radical resection is primarily indicated for malignant neoplasms, such as sarcomas, although it may also be necessary for benign tumors or those of indeterminate nature. The procedure begins with the creation of a skin incision directly over the tumor or the elevation of a skin flap to access the tumor. Once the overlying tissue is carefully dissected, the tumor is exposed and excised en bloc, which means it is removed along with a wide margin of surrounding healthy tissue to ensure complete removal of the tumor. This radical resection may involve the excision of all affected soft tissue, which can include critical structures such as muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. To confirm that all tumor cells have been removed, a separately reportable frozen section may be performed to evaluate the margins of the excised tissue. If any margins are found to contain malignant cells, additional tissue will be excised until all margins are confirmed to be free of tumor cells. Post-surgery, drains may be placed as necessary to manage fluid accumulation, and the surgical wound can be closed in layers or may require additional reconstructive procedures that are separately reportable. The code 27364 is specifically designated for the radical resection of soft-tissue tumors measuring 5 cm or greater in the thigh or knee region.