CPT® Code 27814

Open treatment of bimalleolar ankle fracture (eg, lateral and medial malleoli, or lateral and posterior malleoli, or medial and posterior malleoli), includes internal fixation, when performed

The CPT® Code 27814 refers to the open treatment of a bimalleolar ankle fracture, which involves the lateral and medial malleoli, the lateral and posterior malleoli, or the medial and posterior malleoli. This procedure includes the use of internal fixation when necessary. A bimalleolar ankle fracture is characterized by the involvement of two of the three bony prominences around the ankle joint: the lateral malleolus, which is the bony projection of the distal fibula on the outer side of the ankle; the medial malleolus, located at the distal end of the tibia on the inner side; and the posterior malleolus, also known as the posterior lip, which is the bony process at the back of the tibia. The open treatment approach allows for direct access to the fracture site, enabling the surgeon to properly align and stabilize the fractured bones. This is crucial for restoring the normal anatomy and function of the ankle joint, which is essential for weight-bearing and mobility. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions, and careful dissection is required to protect surrounding nerves and tissues during the operation.