CPT® Code 27840

Closed treatment of an ankle dislocation refers to a non-surgical procedure aimed at realigning the bones of the ankle joint that have been displaced due to an injury. This type of dislocation occurs when the bones of the ankle are forced out of their normal position, which can happen without any accompanying fractures. Ankle dislocations are considered relatively uncommon injuries, but they can lead to serious complications, such as neurovascular impairment, if not promptly identified and treated. During the procedure, the healthcare provider evaluates the neurovascular status of the foot to ensure that blood flow and nerve function are intact. If there are signs of neurovascular compromise, such as coldness, discoloration, or absence of pulse or sensation, the reduction of the dislocation is typically performed immediately, often without the need for pre-reduction imaging. In cases where the neurovascular status is stable, imaging studies may be conducted prior to treatment to assess the injury further. The most frequently encountered type of ankle dislocation is the posterior dislocation of the talus. The reduction process involves specific maneuvers, including holding the foot in a plantar flexed position and applying traction to realign the dislocated bones. After the successful reduction, the ankle is immobilized using a long leg sugar tong posterior splint to maintain the joint in a 90-degree flexion position, and follow-up radiographs may be taken to confirm proper alignment of the ankle structures.