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Official Description

Decompression fasciotomy(ies), pelvic (buttock) compartment(s) (eg, gluteus medius-minimus, gluteus maximus, iliopsoas, and/or tensor fascia lata muscle) with debridement of nonviable muscle, unilateral

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Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 27057 refers to a surgical procedure known as a unilateral decompression fasciotomy of the pelvic (buttock) compartments, which includes the gluteus medius-minimus, gluteus maximus, iliopsoas, and tensor fascia lata muscles. This procedure is performed to relieve pressure within these muscle compartments, which can become compromised due to conditions such as compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome in the pelvic region, although uncommon, can arise as a result of trauma or injury to the pelvic ring, leading to significant pain and potential muscle damage. During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision to access the affected compartments, allowing for the release of pressure and the removal of any nonviable muscle tissue through a process known as debridement. The goal is to preserve as much healthy muscle tissue as possible while ensuring that any dead or damaged tissue is adequately removed to promote healing and restore function. The approach to the incision can vary, with options including a curved incision along the iliac crest or a posterior incision extending from the iliac spine to the greater trochanter, among others. This detailed surgical intervention is critical for patients experiencing severe complications from compartment syndrome, as it aims to prevent further tissue damage and improve overall outcomes.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Decompression fasciotomy (CPT® Code 27057) is indicated for patients experiencing compartment syndrome in the pelvic (buttock) compartments. This condition may arise due to various factors, including:

  • Trauma Complications resulting from injuries to the pelvic ring can lead to increased pressure within the muscle compartments.
  • Injury Direct injuries to the pelvic area that compromise blood flow and muscle viability.
  • Swelling Conditions that cause significant swelling in the pelvic region, leading to potential muscle and nerve damage.

2. Procedure

The procedure for a unilateral decompression fasciotomy involves several critical steps to ensure effective treatment of compartment syndrome:

  • Step 1: Incision The surgeon begins by making a strategic incision to access the pelvic compartments. This may involve a curved incision parallel to the iliac crest, a posterior incision from the iliac spine to the greater trochanter, or a double curved incision extending from the iliac spine over the greater trochanter down to the gluteal fold. The choice of incision depends on the specific anatomy and the extent of the compartment syndrome.
  • Step 2: Exposure Once the incision is made, the surgeon carefully dissects through the subcutaneous tissue to expose the tensor fascia lata muscle. This step is crucial for gaining access to the underlying muscle compartments.
  • Step 3: Decompression The muscle sheaths of the gluteal muscles and/or iliopsoas are then incised to relieve the pressure within the compartments. Multiple incisions may be necessary to adequately decompress the affected areas and restore normal blood flow.
  • Step 4: Debridement After decompression, the exposed muscle tissue is thoroughly evaluated. Any nonviable muscle tissue is excised to prevent further complications. The surgeon aims to preserve as much viable tissue as possible, excising only until capillary bleeding is noted, indicating healthy tissue.
  • Step 5: Nerve Inspection During the procedure, the sciatic nerve may also be exposed and inspected for any signs of direct injury, ensuring that all potential complications are addressed.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the decompression fasciotomy, patients will require careful monitoring and post-operative care. This includes managing pain, preventing infection at the incision site, and monitoring for any signs of complications. Rehabilitation may be necessary to restore function and strength in the affected muscles. The recovery process will vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's overall health, but the goal is to facilitate healing and return to normal activities as soon as possible.

Short Descr BUTTOCK FASCIOTOMY W/DBRDMT
Medium Descr DCMPRN FASCIOTOMY PELVIC CMPRT DBRDMT MUSCLE UNI
Long Descr Decompression fasciotomy(ies), pelvic (buttock) compartment(s) (eg, gluteus medius-minimus, gluteus maximus, iliopsoas, and/or tensor fascia lata muscle) with debridement of nonviable muscle, unilateral
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 160 - Other therapeutic procedures on muscles and tendons
50 Bilateral procedure: unless otherwise identified in the listings, bilateral procedures that are performed at the same session, should be identified by adding modifier 50 to the appropriate 5 digit code. note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
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2009-01-01 Added -
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