How To Use CPT Code 29838

CPT 29838 describes a specific arthroscopy procedure performed on the elbow joint to remove extensive damaged tissues caused by trauma. 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 29838?

CPT 29838 is a code used to describe a surgical arthroscopy procedure performed on the elbow joint. This procedure involves the examination of the tissue inside the elbow joint using an arthroscope, a tubular instrument with a camera and fiberoptic light source. The provider makes small incisions in the elbow area and inserts the arthroscope to view the entire elbow joint. The damaged tissues, including scar tissue, adhesions, and other unhealthy tissue, are extensively debrided and removed. The procedure concludes with irrigation, checking for bleeding, removal of instruments, and closure of the incision.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29838 is: ‘Arthroscopy, elbow, surgical; debridement, extensive.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring appropriate anesthesia and prepping the elbow area.
2. Small incisions are made in the elbow area to allow for the insertion of the arthroscope.
3. The arthroscope is inserted into the elbow joint, and saline solution is instilled to expand the area for better visualization.
4. The provider uses the camera of the arthroscope to view the entire elbow joint and identifies the damaged tissues.
5. Additional instruments are inserted to perform an extensive debridement, removing damaged tissue, scar tissue, and adhesions in the front and back of the elbow.
6. Tendons and muscle tissue are debrided as necessary.
7. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
8. The incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29838 is used when there is extensive damage to the tissues in the elbow joint due to trauma. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional who is skilled in arthroscopy. The patient must meet the criteria for the procedure, and the provider must document the need for extensive debridement in the medical record.

5. When to use CPT code 29838

CPT code 29838 should be used when the provider performs an arthroscopy procedure on the elbow joint to extensively debride damaged tissues caused by trauma. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the need for extensive debridement and that the procedure is performed on the elbow joint specifically.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29838, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure, including the extent of damage to the tissues in the elbow joint
• Details of the arthroscopy procedure, including the use of the arthroscope and additional instruments
• Specific tissues debrided and removed during the procedure
• Confirmation of irrigation, absence of bleeding, and removal of instruments
• Closure of the incision
• Any additional relevant information related to the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29838, ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria for extensive debridement of damaged tissues in the elbow joint. It is important to use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. It is also crucial to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 29838 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 with a history of elbow trauma undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement of damaged tissues in the elbow joint.
2. An athlete sustains an elbow injury during a game and requires arthroscopy to remove extensively damaged tissues in the elbow joint.
3. A patient with chronic elbow pain undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement of damaged tissues, providing relief and improved joint function.
4. A car accident victim with elbow injuries undergoes arthroscopy to remove extensively damaged tissues and promote healing.
5. A patient with a history of repetitive motion injury undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement of damaged tissues in the elbow joint.
6. An individual with a history of elbow trauma and limited range of motion undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement, resulting in improved mobility.
7. A patient with chronic inflammation in the elbow joint undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement, reducing pain and swelling.
8. An individual with a history of elbow dislocation undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement of damaged tissues, restoring stability to the joint.
9. A patient with a history of elbow fractures undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement, promoting proper healing and preventing complications.
10. An individual with a history of elbow instability undergoes arthroscopy for extensive debridement, improving joint stability and function.