CPT® Code 27479

Epiphyseal arrest, also known as growth plate arrest, is a surgical procedure aimed at addressing discrepancies in bone length, particularly between the femurs or between the tibia and fibula. The epiphysis, commonly referred to as the growth plate, is a critical area in long bone development where new bone tissue is formed. This procedure is typically indicated when there is a significant difference in length between the bones, which can lead to functional impairments or aesthetic concerns. During the surgery, an incision is made over the distal aspect of the femur and/or the proximal aspect of the tibia and/or fibula. Careful dissection of the surrounding soft tissues is performed to avoid damaging vital blood vessels and nerves. Once the distal femur and/or proximal tibia and/or fibula are adequately exposed, various devices such as Blount staples, transphyseal screws, or a plate and screw device are strategically placed in the epiphysis. These devices serve to temporarily halt the growth of the bone, thereby allowing for the correction of the length discrepancy. It is important to note that specific CPT codes are designated for different combinations of epiphyseal arrest procedures: CPT® Code 27475 is used for epiphyseal arrest of the distal femur, CPT® Code 27477 is for the proximal tibia and fibula, and CPT® Code 27479 is utilized when the procedure involves both the distal femur and the proximal tibia and fibula.