How To Use CPT Code 29850

CPT 29850 describes the arthroscopically aided treatment of intercondylar spine(s) and/or tuberosity fracture(s) of the knee, without the use of internal or external fixation devices. 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 29850?

CPT 29850 is used to describe a specific procedure performed by a healthcare provider to treat fractures of the intercondylar spine(s) and/or tuberosity of the knee. This procedure is performed arthroscopically, meaning that a tiny camera called an arthroscope is used to visualize and treat the joint. The procedure does not involve the use of internal or external fixation devices to stabilize the fracture.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29850 is: ‘Arthroscopically aided treatment of intercondylar spine(s) and/or tuberosity fracture(s) of the knee, with or without manipulation; without internal or external fixation (includes arthroscopy).’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring that they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. The provider creates two small incisions on either side of the patellar tendon over the knee joint.
3. An arthroscope is introduced through one of the incisions, allowing the provider to visualize the joint.
4. The provider examines the knee joint for any fractures of the intercondylar spine(s) and/or tuberosity.
5. If the fracture fragments are displaced, the provider may manipulate them to reduce the fracture.
6. The provider debrides any damaged tissue within the joint.
7. No internal or external fixation devices are used to stabilize the fracture.
8. All instruments are removed from the portals.
9. The incisions are closed, and bandages are applied.
10. In some cases, the provider may place the knee in a brace for four weeks to aid in the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29850 is used for the treatment of fractures of the intercondylar spine(s) and/or tuberosity of the knee. The procedure must be performed arthroscopically, without the use of internal or external fixation devices. The specific qualifying circumstances may vary depending on the patient’s condition and the provider’s clinical judgment.

5. When to use CPT code 29850

CPT code 29850 should be used when a healthcare provider performs arthroscopically aided treatment for fractures of the intercondylar spine(s) and/or tuberosity of the knee without the use of internal or external fixation devices. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29850, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and indication for the procedure
• Description of the procedure performed, including any manipulation or debridement
• Use of arthroscopy during the procedure
• Absence of internal or external fixation devices
• Details of any additional procedures or treatments performed
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29850, 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. CPT 29850 should not be reported with other codes that include internal or external fixation devices. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines and requirements of the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 29850 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs arthroscopically aided treatment for a fracture of the intercondylar spine of the knee without the use of internal or external fixation devices.
2. Using an arthroscope, a provider treats a tuberosity fracture of the knee without the need for manipulation or fixation.
3. A patient undergoes arthroscopically aided treatment for a combined fracture of the intercondylar spine and tuberosity of the knee, with the procedure performed without internal or external fixation devices.
4. A healthcare provider performs arthroscopic debridement of a tuberosity fracture of the knee without the use of manipulation or fixation.
5. Using arthroscopy, a provider treats a fracture of the intercondylar spine of the knee, ensuring that no internal or external fixation devices are used.
6. A patient undergoes arthroscopically aided treatment for a tuberosity fracture of the knee, with the procedure performed without manipulation or fixation.
7. A healthcare provider performs arthroscopic debridement of a combined fracture of the intercondylar spine and tuberosity of the knee, without the use of internal or external fixation devices.
8. Using an arthroscope, a provider treats a tuberosity fracture of the knee without the need for manipulation or fixation.
9. A patient undergoes arthroscopically aided treatment for a fracture of the intercondylar spine of the knee, with the procedure performed without internal or external fixation devices.