How To Use CPT Code 28024

CPT 28024 describes the surgical procedure of arthrotomy, including exploration, drainage, or removal of a loose or foreign body, specifically in the interphalangeal joint of the foot or toes. 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 28024?

CPT 28024 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure performed on the interphalangeal joint of the foot or toes. It involves making an incision to explore the joint, drain any fluid or abscess, and remove any loose or foreign bodies if necessary. This procedure is typically performed to address infections or other issues affecting the joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28024 is: ‘Arthrotomy, including exploration, drainage, or removal of loose or foreign body; interphalangeal joint.’

3. Procedure

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

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28024 is used when the patient requires an arthrotomy procedure on the interphalangeal joint of the foot or toes. This may be due to an infection, the presence of a foreign body, or other conditions affecting the joint. The procedure must be performed by a qualified healthcare professional and meet the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

5. When to use CPT code 28024

CPT code 28024 should be used when a surgical arthrotomy procedure is performed on the interphalangeal joint of the foot or toes. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. If the procedure is performed on a different joint or involves different components, a different CPT code may be more appropriate.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 28024, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• The reason for the procedure, such as an infection or the presence of a foreign body
• Details of the surgical approach, including the incision site and technique
• Any findings during the exploration of the joint
• Any drainage or removal of fluid, abscess, or foreign bodies
• Details of the irrigation and closure of the wound
• Any additional relevant information or complications

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 28024, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any necessary supporting information. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or modifiers that may be required for proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 28024 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 surgeon performs an arthrotomy on the interphalangeal joint of a patient’s foot to drain an abscess.
2. A podiatrist makes an incision over the interphalangeal joint of a patient’s toe to remove a foreign body.
3. An orthopedic surgeon explores the interphalangeal joint of a patient’s foot to address an infection.
4. A foot and ankle specialist performs an arthrotomy on the interphalangeal joint of a patient’s toe to remove a loose body.
5. A surgeon makes an incision over the interphalangeal joint of a patient’s foot to explore and address a chronic joint issue.