How To Use CPT Code 28080

CPT 28080 describes the excision of an interdigital (Morton) neuroma, which is a painful condition that causes thickening of the plantar nerve between the metatarsal heads. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 28080?

CPT 28080 is used to describe the excision of an interdigital (Morton) neuroma. This procedure involves the removal of a painful mass that grows from a nerve located between the metatarsal heads in the foot. The provider makes an incision in the interspace where the neuroma is present, dissects through the subcutaneous tissue, identifies and removes the neuroma, irrigates the wound, and closes it in layers.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 28080 is: ‘Excision, interdigital (Morton) neuroma, single, each.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the interspace where the neuroma is located.
3. The provider carefully dissects through the subcutaneous tissue, ensuring the protection of nerves and vessels.
4. The neuroma is identified and removed.
5. The wound is irrigated with antibiotic solution.
6. The provider closes the wound in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 28080 is performed on patients with interdigital (Morton) neuromas, which cause pain and thickening of the plantar nerve between the metatarsal heads. The procedure is appropriate for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments and require surgical intervention. The provider must ensure that the patient is properly prepped and anesthetized before performing the excision.

5. When to use CPT code 28080

CPT code 28080 should be used when a provider performs the excision of a single interdigital (Morton) neuroma. It is important to report one unit of 28080 for each neuroma excision performed during the surgical session.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 28080, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of interdigital (Morton) neuroma
• Details of the procedure, including the incision site and the steps performed
• Use of anesthesia and any preoperative preparations
• Wound irrigation with antibiotic solution
• Method of wound closure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 28080, ensure that the excision is performed on a single interdigital (Morton) neuroma. Report one unit of 28080 for each neuroma excision performed during the surgical session. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and use appropriate modifiers if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 28080 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A podiatrist performs the excision of an interdigital neuroma in a patient’s left foot.
2. A surgeon removes a Morton’s neuroma from a patient’s right foot during a surgical session.
3. A patient undergoes the excision of an interdigital neuroma in their left foot by an orthopedic specialist.
4. A provider performs the excision of a painful mass between the metatarsal heads in a patient’s right foot.
5. A foot and ankle surgeon removes an interdigital neuroma from a patient’s left foot to alleviate their pain.
6. An interdigital neuroma is excised from a patient’s right foot by a podiatric surgeon.
7. A patient undergoes the removal of a Morton’s neuroma in their left foot by a foot and ankle specialist.
8. A surgeon performs the excision of an interdigital neuroma in a patient’s right foot during a surgical procedure.
9. An orthopedic specialist removes a painful mass between the metatarsal heads in a patient’s left foot.
10. A podiatrist excises an interdigital neuroma from a patient’s right foot to relieve their discomfort.