How To Use CPT Code 29883

CPT 29883 describes a specific arthroscopy procedure performed on the knee 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 29883?

CPT 29883 is a code used to describe a surgical arthroscopy procedure performed on the knee joint. This procedure involves the repair of torn menisci, which are crescent-shaped cartilage cushions, in both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee joint. The purpose of this procedure is to relieve pain and improve mobility in the knee joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29883 is: ‘Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; with meniscus repair (medial AND lateral).’ This code specifically refers to the surgical repair of torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee joint. It is important to note that for meniscal transplantation, a different code, 29868, should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient appropriately.
2. Incisions are made in the knee area to access the joint.
3. An arthroscope, a tubular instrument with a fiberoptic light source and camera, is inserted through one of the incisions to view the inside of the knee joint.
4. Saline solution is instilled into the area to expand the space around the knee joint, allowing for better visualization.
5. The provider inspects the joint and uses specialized instruments to enter the medial compartment of the knee joint.
6. The torn meniscus in the medial compartment is sutured or repaired using appropriate techniques.
7. The provider then repeats the process for the lateral compartment, suturing or repairing the torn meniscus.
8. After the repair is complete, the area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
9. The incisions are closed, and the procedure is concluded.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29883 is performed on patients who have torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee joint. The procedure is typically indicated for individuals experiencing pain and limited mobility due to these specific injuries. It is important to note that this code should only be used when the repair is performed in both compartments. If the repair is performed in only one compartment, either medial or lateral, a different code, 29882, should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 29883

CPT code 29883 should be used when a surgical arthroscopy procedure is performed on the knee joint to repair torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments. It is important to accurately document the specific anatomical site and use the appropriate modifiers, such as RT (Right side) or LT (Left side), if necessary.

6. Documentation requirements

When reporting CPT code 29883, the following documentation is required:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating the presence of torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee joint
• Details of the procedure performed, including the specific techniques used for repair
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider who performed the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 29883, it is important to ensure that the procedure was performed on both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee joint. If the repair was performed in only one compartment, a different code, 29882, should be used. Additionally, appropriate modifiers, such as RT or LT, should be used to indicate the specific side of the knee joint. It is also important to follow any specific guidelines provided by insurance carriers or payers regarding the use of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT code 29883 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 undergoes a surgical arthroscopy procedure on their knee joint to repair torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments.
2. A professional athlete sustains a knee injury and requires a surgical arthroscopy procedure to repair torn menisci in both compartments of the knee joint.
3. An elderly individual experiences chronic knee pain and limited mobility due to torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments, necessitating a surgical arthroscopy procedure.
4. A patient with a history of knee problems undergoes a surgical arthroscopy procedure to repair torn menisci in both compartments of the knee joint.
5. A young adult involved in a sports-related accident requires a surgical arthroscopy procedure to repair torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments of the knee joint.
6. A patient with a degenerative knee condition undergoes a surgical arthroscopy procedure to repair torn menisci in both compartments of the knee joint.
7. An individual involved in a car accident sustains a knee injury and requires a surgical arthroscopy procedure to repair torn menisci in both the medial and lateral compartments.
8. A middle-aged individual experiences knee pain and instability due to torn menisci in both compartments of the knee joint, necessitating a surgical arthroscopy procedure.
9. A patient with a history of sports-related injuries undergoes a surgical arthroscopy procedure to repair torn menisci in both compartments of the knee joint.