CPT® Code 27435

A capsulotomy with posterior capsular release is a surgical procedure performed on the knee joint, primarily aimed at addressing flexion contracture, a condition where the knee cannot fully extend due to tightness or shortening of the surrounding soft tissues. During this procedure, a surgical incision is made over the posteromedial aspect of the knee, which is the back and inner side of the joint. This approach allows the surgeon to access the joint capsule, which is a fibrous tissue structure that encases the knee joint. Once the joint capsule is exposed, it is incised to facilitate further intervention. The procedure involves the excision of scar tissue that may be contributing to the contracture, followed by the detachment of the posterior capsule from the femur, the thigh bone that forms part of the knee joint. After the necessary surgical corrections are made, the range of motion of the knee is assessed to ensure that the desired mobility is achieved. Finally, the incisions are closed in layers to promote proper healing, and a cast may be applied if necessary to maintain the knee in an extended position during the recovery phase.