How To Use CPT Code 28020

CPT 28020 describes the procedure of arthrotomy, including exploration, drainage, or removal of loose or foreign body, specifically in the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 28020?

CPT 28020 is used to describe a surgical procedure that involves making an incision in the joint of the foot or where the foot joints the ankle. This procedure is performed to explore the joint, drain any fluid or abscess, and remove any loose or foreign bodies that may be causing infection or discomfort.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28020 is: ‘Arthrotomy, including exploration, drainage, or removal of loose or foreign body; intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made over the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint to expose the joint capsule.
3. The provider explores the joint space, looking for any signs of infection or foreign bodies.
4. If necessary, the provider drains any abscess fluid and removes any loose or foreign bodies.
5. The area is irrigated with an antibiotic solution to prevent infection.
6. The wound is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28020 is performed on patients who require intervention in the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint due to infection, abscess, or the presence of loose or foreign bodies. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary training and expertise in performing arthrotomies.

5. When to use CPT code 28020

CPT code 28020 should be used when the provider performs an arthrotomy specifically in the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. It is important to accurately document the location of the procedure to ensure proper coding and billing.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 28020, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the arthrotomy procedure
• Specific details of the procedure, including the location (intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint)
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any findings during the exploration of the joint
• Details of any drainage or removal of loose or foreign bodies
• Use of antibiotic solution for irrigation
• Method of wound closure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 28020, ensure that the procedure is performed on the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. It is important to accurately document the location to avoid any coding or billing errors. There are specific codes for foreign body removal in the foot, so it is essential to use the appropriate code based on the site from which the foreign body was removed.

8. Historical information

CPT 28020 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 podiatrist performing an arthrotomy on the intertarsal joint to drain an abscess in a patient with an infection.
2. An orthopedic surgeon exploring the tarsometatarsal joint to remove a foreign body that is causing pain and discomfort in a patient.
3. A foot and ankle specialist performing an arthrotomy on the intertarsal joint to remove loose bodies in a patient with chronic joint issues.
4. A trauma surgeon performing an arthrotomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to explore and clean the joint after a severe foot injury.
5. A sports medicine physician performing an arthrotomy on the intertarsal joint to drain fluid and debris in a patient with a sports-related injury.
6. An orthopedic surgeon performing an arthrotomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to remove a foreign body that is causing infection in a patient.
7. A podiatrist performing an arthrotomy on the intertarsal joint to explore and remove loose bodies in a patient with chronic foot pain.
8. An orthopedic surgeon performing an arthrotomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to drain an abscess in a patient with an infected joint.
9. A foot and ankle specialist performing an arthrotomy on the intertarsal joint to remove a foreign body that is causing inflammation in a patient.
10. A trauma surgeon performing an arthrotomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to explore and clean the joint after a severe foot fracture.