How To Use CPT Code 27334

CPT 27334 describes the surgical procedure of arthrotomy with synovectomy of the knee joint, specifically the anterior or posterior aspect. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27334?

CPT 27334 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure performed on the knee joint. It involves making an incision in the joint capsule and excising the synovium from either the anterior or posterior aspect of the knee. This procedure aims to relieve pain and improve gait in patients.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27334 is: ‘Arthrotomy, with synovectomy, knee; anterior OR posterior.’

3. Procedure

1. When performing CPT 27334, the healthcare provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An incision is made in the capsule of the knee joint to gain access to the synovium.
3. The provider then removes the synovium from either the anterior or posterior aspect of the knee, depending on the specific defect or tear present.
4. After the synovectomy, the site is flushed with sterile saline to ensure cleanliness.
5. Hemostasis is achieved to control any bleeding from the incision site.
6. The incision in the knee joint capsule is closed using sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27334 is performed on patients who require relief from knee joint pain and improved gait. The procedure is indicated when there is a defect or tear in the synovium of the knee joint. It is important to note that this procedure is performed by a healthcare provider and requires appropriate patient preparation and anesthesia.

5. When to use CPT code 27334

CPT code 27334 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an arthrotomy with synovectomy on the knee joint, specifically targeting either the anterior or posterior aspect. This code is appropriate for cases where there is a need to excise the synovium to alleviate pain and improve gait. It is important to accurately document the specific aspect of the knee joint that was addressed during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27334, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for arthrotomy with synovectomy
• Specific aspect of the knee joint (anterior or posterior) targeted during the procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27334, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the specific aspect of the knee joint addressed during the arthrotomy with synovectomy. Additionally, follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the use of modifiers or reporting of multiple procedures. It is also important to review any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 27334 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a tear in the anterior synovium of the knee undergoes arthrotomy with synovectomy to alleviate pain and improve gait.
2. During a surgical procedure, the healthcare provider performs arthrotomy with synovectomy of the posterior aspect of the knee joint to address a defect in the synovium.
3. A patient with chronic knee joint pain undergoes arthrotomy with synovectomy of the anterior aspect to improve their mobility.
4. Arthrotomy with synovectomy is performed on a patient with a tear in the posterior synovium of the knee joint, aiming to relieve pain and improve function.
5. A healthcare provider performs arthrotomy with synovectomy of the anterior aspect of the knee joint to address a defect in the synovium, allowing the patient to regain their range of motion.
6. During a surgical procedure, the healthcare provider performs arthrotomy with synovectomy of the posterior aspect of the knee joint to alleviate pain and improve gait.
7. A patient with a tear in the anterior synovium of the knee undergoes arthrotomy with synovectomy to improve their mobility and reduce discomfort.
8. Arthrotomy with synovectomy is performed on a patient with chronic knee joint pain, targeting the posterior aspect of the knee to alleviate their symptoms.
9. A healthcare provider performs arthrotomy with synovectomy of the anterior aspect of the knee joint to address a defect in the synovium, aiming to improve the patient’s quality of life.
10. During a surgical procedure, the healthcare provider performs arthrotomy with synovectomy of the posterior aspect of the knee joint to alleviate pain and improve the patient’s ability to walk.