How To Use CPT Code 29834

CPT 29834 describes a specific procedure that involves the examination and removal of loose or foreign bodies in the elbow joint using an arthroscope. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 29834, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 29834?

CPT 29834 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the examination and removal of loose or foreign bodies in the elbow joint. This procedure is performed using an arthroscope, which is a tubular instrument with a fiberoptic light source and camera that allows the provider to view the inside of the joint. The purpose of this procedure is to alleviate pain, inflammation, and other symptoms caused by these loose or foreign bodies, as well as to improve the overall function and mobility of the joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29834 is: ‘Arthroscopy, elbow, surgical; with removal of loose body or foreign body.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the elbow area, after the patient has been appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. Through this incision, the provider inserts the arthroscope into the elbow joint.
3. Saline solution is then instilled into the area to inflate the space around the joint, allowing for better visualization.
4. The provider carefully examines the joint using the arthroscope, looking for any loose or foreign bodies that may be causing symptoms.
5. If any loose or foreign bodies are found, the provider uses specialized instruments to secure and remove them.
6. After the removal of the loose or foreign bodies, the provider irrigates the area to ensure it is clean and checks for any bleeding.
7. Any instruments used during the procedure are removed, and the incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29834 is typically performed on patients who are experiencing pain, inflammation, restricted motion, or other symptoms in the elbow joint due to the presence of loose or foreign bodies. These bodies can include small pieces of broken cartilage or suture anchors that were inserted during a previous surgical procedure. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider who is skilled in arthroscopy and has the necessary training and experience to safely and effectively remove these bodies from the joint.

5. When to use CPT code 29834

CPT code 29834 should be used when a provider performs a surgical arthroscopy of the elbow joint specifically for the purpose of removing loose or foreign bodies. It is important to note that this code should not be used for diagnostic arthroscopy procedures or for other surgical procedures performed on the elbow joint that do not involve the removal of loose or foreign bodies.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 29834, the provider must document the following information:

• The reason for performing the procedure, including the presence of symptoms and the identification of loose or foreign bodies in the elbow joint
• A detailed description of the procedure, including the specific techniques used and any complications encountered
• The date and duration of the procedure
• The findings of the arthroscopy, including the size and nature of any loose or foreign bodies removed
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• The provider’s signature and credentials

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 29834, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. This includes the removal of loose or foreign bodies in the elbow joint using arthroscopy. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines and requirements for CPT code 29834 to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 29834 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 patient presents with persistent elbow pain and limited range of motion. The provider performs an arthroscopy and discovers a loose body in the joint, which is successfully removed using CPT code 29834.
2. After a previous surgical procedure on the elbow, a patient experiences ongoing discomfort and swelling. The provider performs an arthroscopy and identifies a foreign body that was left behind during the previous surgery. The foreign body is removed using CPT code 29834.
3. A professional athlete sustains an elbow injury during a game and develops symptoms of pain and instability. The provider performs an arthroscopy and finds a loose body that is causing the symptoms. The loose body is removed using CPT code 29834.
4. A patient with a history of elbow trauma experiences recurrent episodes of pain and clicking in the joint. The provider performs an arthroscopy and discovers a loose body that is causing the symptoms. The loose body is removed using CPT code 29834.
5. A patient with a known foreign body in the elbow joint presents with worsening pain and swelling. The provider performs an arthroscopy and successfully removes the foreign body using CPT code 29834.