How To Use CPT Code 29847

CPT 29847 describes a specific procedure used for internal fixation of fractures or instability in the wrist 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 29847?

CPT 29847 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure involving the use of an arthroscope to examine the tissue inside the wrist joint. The provider makes small incisions in the wrist area and inserts the arthroscope to visualize the structures within the joint. The procedure is performed to internally fixate fractures or address chronic instability in the wrist.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29847 is: ‘Arthroscopy, wrist, surgical; internal fixation for fracture or instability.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring appropriate anesthesia and prepping the wrist area.
2. Small incisions are made in the wrist, and an arthroscope is inserted into the joint to visualize the structures.
3. The provider uses additional instruments to reduce or realign the bones in the wrist, addressing any fractures or chronic instability.
4. Screws may be inserted to hold the bones in place and provide internal fixation.
5. The provider irrigates the area, checks for bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incisions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29847 is used when a patient requires internal fixation for fractures or chronic instability in the wrist joint. The procedure is performed by a qualified provider who uses an arthroscope to visualize and address the condition. The patient must have a documented diagnosis of a fracture or chronic instability in the wrist.

5. When to use CPT code 29847

CPT code 29847 should be used when a provider performs surgical internal fixation for fractures or chronic instability in the wrist joint using an arthroscope. It is important to note that this code should not be used for diagnostic arthroscopy procedures or for procedures performed on other joints.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29847, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a fracture or chronic instability in the wrist
• Details of the procedure, including the use of an arthroscope and any additional instruments
• Incision sites and the number of incisions made
• Specific actions taken during the procedure, such as reduction or realignment of bones and insertion of screws
• Confirmation of irrigation, absence of bleeding, removal of instruments, and closure of incisions
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29847, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for internal fixation of fractures or chronic instability in the wrist joint using an arthroscope. It is important to note that a diagnostic arthroscopy code should not be reported in conjunction with CPT 29847. If a diagnostic arthroscopy is performed and an open repair is necessary, both procedures can be reported with the appropriate modifiers. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by payers regarding the use of CPT 29847.

8. Historical information

CPT 29847 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 fractured wrist undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to realign the bones and stabilize the joint.
2. A patient with chronic instability in the wrist undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to address the instability and provide stability to the joint.
3. An athlete with a wrist fracture resulting from a sports injury undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to promote proper healing and restore function.
4. A patient with a history of wrist instability undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to address the chronic instability and improve joint stability.
5. A patient with a wrist fracture that did not heal properly undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to correct the alignment and promote proper healing.
6. A patient with chronic wrist pain and instability undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to address the underlying cause of the symptoms and improve joint function.
7. A patient with a wrist fracture resulting from a fall undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to stabilize the bones and promote proper healing.
8. A patient with chronic wrist instability due to ligament damage undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to repair the ligaments and improve joint stability.
9. An elderly patient with a wrist fracture undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to promote proper healing and restore function for daily activities.
10. A patient with chronic wrist pain and limited range of motion undergoes arthroscopic internal fixation to address the underlying cause of the symptoms and improve joint function.