CPT® Code 27506

Open treatment of femoral shaft fracture, with or without external fixation, with insertion of intramedullary implant, with or without cerclage and/or locking screws

Open treatment of a femoral shaft fracture involves a surgical procedure aimed at repairing a break in the femur, which is the long bone in the thigh. This procedure is characterized by the direct exposure of the fracture site through an incision, allowing for precise manipulation and stabilization of the bone fragments. The treatment typically includes the insertion of an intramedullary implant, which is a type of rod or nail that is placed within the medullary canal of the femur to provide internal support. The procedure may also involve the use of cerclage wires and locking screws to enhance stability, and in some cases, external fixation devices may be applied to further secure the fracture. The approach to inserting the intramedullary implant can be either antegrade, where the implant is inserted from the top of the femur, or retrograde, where it is inserted from the bottom. The antegrade approach is more commonly used and involves careful dissection of the surrounding muscles and tissues to access the femur. The goal of this procedure is to restore the anatomical alignment of the femur, promote healing, and allow for early mobilization of the patient.