How To Use CPT Code 28008

CPT 28008 describes the procedure of fasciotomy on the foot and/or toe to relieve tension or pressure caused by plantar fasciitis or to release a contracture of the toe. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 28008?

CPT 28008 is used to describe a surgical procedure called fasciotomy, which involves making an incision in the deep tissues of the foot or toe. This procedure is performed to alleviate tension or pressure caused by plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammatory condition of the foot, or to release a contracture of the toe. The incision allows the healthcare provider to access and treat the underlying structures, providing relief to the patient.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28008 is: ‘Fasciotomy, foot and/or toe.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The healthcare provider makes a plantar incision, exposing the deep fascia overlying the abductor hallucis and the medial plantar fascial band.
3. The provider detaches the plantar fascia from the heel bone and may make additional incisions on either side of the heel to release tension.
4. If necessary, the provider may rasp or sand the bony surface to reduce irritation to the fascia.
5. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
6. The incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28008 is performed on patients who have plantar fasciitis or a contracture of the toe that requires relief of tension or pressure. The procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who is trained and qualified to perform fasciotomies. The patient must meet the criteria for the procedure, as determined by the healthcare provider.

5. When to use CPT code 28008

CPT code 28008 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a fasciotomy on the foot and/or toe to relieve tension or pressure caused by plantar fasciitis or to release a contracture of the toe. This code should be used for each instance of the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 28008, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of plantar fasciitis or contracture of the toe
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific structures accessed and treated
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or treatments performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 28008, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers, if applicable. It is important to accurately document and code the procedure to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 28008 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 healthcare provider performs a fasciotomy on a patient with severe plantar fasciitis, relieving tension and pressure in the foot.
2. A patient with a contracture of the toe undergoes a fasciotomy to release the contracture and improve mobility.
3. A healthcare provider performs a fasciotomy on a patient with both plantar fasciitis and a contracture of the toe, addressing both conditions in a single procedure.
4. A patient with chronic foot pain undergoes a fasciotomy to alleviate tension and pressure caused by plantar fasciitis.
5. A healthcare provider performs a fasciotomy on a patient with a severe contracture of the toe, improving the patient’s ability to walk and wear shoes comfortably.
6. A patient with recurring plantar fasciitis undergoes a fasciotomy to provide long-term relief from pain and discomfort.
7. A healthcare provider performs a fasciotomy on a patient with a chronic toe contracture, restoring normal range of motion and function.
8. A patient with a severe case of plantar fasciitis undergoes a fasciotomy to address the underlying cause of their foot pain.
9. A healthcare provider performs a fasciotomy on a patient with a contracture of multiple toes, improving the patient’s ability to walk and perform daily activities.
10. A patient with a history of plantar fasciitis undergoes a fasciotomy as a preventive measure to avoid future flare-ups of the condition.