How To Use CPT Code 29884

CPT 29884 describes a specific procedure used in arthroscopy of 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 29884?

CPT 29884 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure performed during arthroscopy of the knee joint. This procedure involves the lysis of adhesions, which means the destruction or removal of fibrous bands that form between tissues and organs inside the knee joint. The provider may also perform manipulation of the knee joint if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29884 is: ‘Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; with lysis of adhesions, with or without manipulation (separate procedure).’ This code specifically refers to the surgical procedure of lysis of adhesions during knee arthroscopy.

3. Procedure

1. After appropriate prepping and anesthesia, the provider makes small incisions in the knee area.
2. An arthroscope, a tubular instrument with a fiberoptic light source and camera, is inserted through one of the incisions into the knee joint.
3. The provider instills saline solution to inflate the area around the knee joint, improving visibility.
4. Additional instruments are inserted to lyse or destroy adhesions, freeing up movement in the knee joint.
5. If necessary, the provider manipulates the knee joint to ensure proper alignment and function.
6. The provider irrigates the area, checks for bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incision.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29884 is performed on patients who have adhesions within the knee joint that are causing restricted movement and discomfort. Adhesions typically form as a result of inflammation or injury during previous surgeries. This procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional who is trained in arthroscopy and has the necessary expertise to perform lysis of adhesions and knee manipulation.

5. When to use CPT code 29884

CPT code 29884 should be used when a provider performs arthroscopy of the knee joint and specifically performs the surgical procedure of lysis of adhesions. This code should not be used for diagnostic arthroscopy procedures or for other surgical procedures performed during knee arthroscopy.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29884, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the presence of adhesions in the knee joint
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including lysis of adhesions and knee manipulation
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional findings or procedures performed during the arthroscopy
• Any complications or adverse events that occurred
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29884, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically lysis of adhesions during knee arthroscopy. This code should not be reported with diagnostic arthroscopy codes. It is important to use the appropriate modifiers, such as RT (right side) or LT (left side), to indicate the specific anatomical site. It is also crucial to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 29884 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 knee arthroscopy for lysis of adhesions to improve range of motion and alleviate pain.
2. A provider performs knee arthroscopy with lysis of adhesions and manipulation to restore proper knee joint function in a patient with a history of knee surgery.
3. During knee arthroscopy, a surgeon performs lysis of adhesions to release fibrous bands that are causing restricted movement in the knee joint.
4. A patient with adhesions in the knee joint undergoes arthroscopy with lysis of adhesions to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
5. A provider performs knee arthroscopy with lysis of adhesions and manipulation to address post-surgical complications and restore normal knee function.
6. During knee arthroscopy, a surgeon performs lysis of adhesions to remove fibrous bands and improve the patient’s ability to move the knee joint.
7. A patient with restricted knee joint movement undergoes arthroscopy with lysis of adhesions to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
8. A provider performs knee arthroscopy with lysis of adhesions and manipulation to address chronic knee pain and restore normal joint function.
9. During knee arthroscopy, a surgeon performs lysis of adhesions to release fibrous bands and improve the patient’s ability to perform daily activities.
10. A patient with adhesions in the knee joint undergoes arthroscopy with lysis of adhesions to improve range of motion and reduce discomfort.