How To Use CPT Code 28070

CPT 28070 describes the procedure of synovectomy, specifically targeting the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. 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 28070?

CPT 28070 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure known as synovectomy. This procedure involves the removal of the inflamed or diseased synovium from the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. The synovium is a thin membrane that lines the joint cavity. Intertarsal joints are the joints between the tarsal bones near the rear area of the foot, while tarsometatarsal joints are the joints between the tarsal and metatarsal bones of the foot.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28070 is: ‘Synovectomy; intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint, each.’

3. Procedure

1. When performing CPT 28070, the healthcare provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient appropriately.
2. An incision is made in the skin over the targeted joint, in front of the ankle.
3. The provider then dissects through the soft tissue and reflects the tendon to expose the joint.
4. The joint capsule is incised and opened to expose the synovium, which is the membrane lining the joint cavity.
5. The inflamed synovium is carefully removed from the joint.
6. The wound is irrigated with an antibiotic solution, and the provider closes the wound in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28070 is performed on patients who have inflamed or diseased synovium in the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. This procedure is typically indicated when conservative treatments have failed to alleviate symptoms. The patient must meet the specific criteria for this procedure, and the healthcare provider must determine that a synovectomy is necessary for the patient’s condition.

5. When to use CPT code 28070

CPT code 28070 should be used when a synovectomy is performed on the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joint. It is important to ensure that the procedure is accurately documented and meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 28070, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for synovectomy
• Specific joint targeted for the synovectomy
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, dissection, removal of synovium, and wound closure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 28070, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the procedure and any additional services provided. Review the billing guidelines and requirements set forth by the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 28070 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 a synovectomy on the intertarsal joint of a patient’s foot to alleviate chronic pain and inflammation.
2. An orthopedic surgeon conducting a synovectomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to treat a patient with rheumatoid arthritis.
3. A foot and ankle specialist performing a synovectomy on the intertarsal joint to address recurrent swelling and discomfort in a patient with synovitis.
4. A sports medicine physician conducting a synovectomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to treat a patient with a history of joint instability and recurrent sprains.
5. An orthopedic surgeon performing a synovectomy on the intertarsal joint to alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis in a patient.
6. A podiatrist conducting a synovectomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to address chronic inflammation and pain in a patient with gout.
7. An orthopedic surgeon performing a synovectomy on the intertarsal joint to treat a patient with septic arthritis.
8. A foot and ankle specialist conducting a synovectomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to address chronic synovitis in a patient with psoriatic arthritis.
9. A podiatrist performing a synovectomy on the intertarsal joint to alleviate symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis in a patient.
10. An orthopedic surgeon conducting a synovectomy on the tarsometatarsal joint to treat a patient with a history of joint deformity and chronic pain.