How To Use CPT Code 29897

CPT 29897 describes the surgical procedure of arthroscopy on the ankle joint, specifically the tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 29897?

CPT 29897 can be used to describe a surgical procedure called arthroscopy, which involves examining and repairing the tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints of the ankle. This procedure is performed using an arthroscope, a specialized instrument with a camera that allows the provider to view the inside of the joint. During the procedure, damaged tissue is trimmed to alleviate pain and improve range of motion.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29897 is: ‘Arthroscopy, ankle (tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints), surgical; debridement, limited.’ This code specifically refers to the surgical arthroscopy procedure performed on the ankle joint, focusing on debridement, which involves the removal of damaged or unhealthy tissue to promote healing.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient appropriately.
2. Small incisions are made in the ankle area to access the tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints.
3. An arthroscope is inserted through one of the incisions, and saline solution is instilled to expand the joint area for better visibility.
4. The provider uses the arthroscope’s camera to visualize the joints and identify any damaged areas.
5. Additional instruments are inserted through the incisions to perform limited debridement, removing the damaged tissue.
6. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
7. The incisions are closed, completing the procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29897 is used when a patient requires surgical arthroscopy on the ankle joint, specifically for limited debridement. This procedure is typically performed to alleviate pain and improve joint function in cases where there is damaged or unhealthy tissue present. It is important to note that CPT 29897 should not be reported if extensive debridement, such as the removal of small bone spurs, is performed. In such cases, CPT code 29898 should be used instead.

5. When to use CPT code 29897

CPT code 29897 should be used when a provider performs surgical arthroscopy on the ankle joint, specifically for limited debridement. This code is appropriate when the procedure involves the tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints and the removal of damaged tissue. It is important to ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and that it is not reported alongside a diagnostic code, as surgical arthroscopy already includes a diagnostic component.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29897, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for surgical arthroscopy
• Specific details of the procedure, including the joints involved and the extent of debridement
• Date of the procedure
• Incision sites and the use of an arthroscope
• Any additional instruments used during the procedure
• Confirmation of irrigation, absence of bleeding, and closure of incisions

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29897, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for limited debridement of the ankle joints. The documentation should support the use of this code and not include extensive debridement. Additionally, it is crucial to avoid reporting a diagnostic code alongside CPT 29897, as surgical arthroscopy already includes a diagnostic component. It is also important to note that CPT 29897 should not be reported with other codes such as CPT 29866 to CPT 29868 if they have already been performed in the previous seven days.

8. Historical information

CPT 29897 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 provider performs arthroscopy on a patient’s ankle joint to perform limited debridement, removing damaged tissue to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
2. An individual undergoes surgical arthroscopy on their ankle joint to address a specific condition, such as removing loose bodies or performing a synovectomy.
3. A patient with ankle pain and limited range of motion undergoes arthroscopy, and the provider identifies and trims damaged tissue during the procedure.
4. During ankle arthroscopy, a provider discovers and removes small bone spurs that are causing discomfort and hindering joint movement.
5. Athlete undergoes surgical arthroscopy on their ankle joint to address a sports-related injury, and the provider performs limited debridement to promote healing and recovery.
6. A patient with chronic ankle pain undergoes arthroscopy, and the provider identifies and trims damaged tissue to improve their quality of life.
7. Individual with ankle arthritis undergoes surgical arthroscopy, and the provider performs limited debridement to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
8. A provider performs arthroscopy on a patient’s ankle joint to address a specific condition, such as removing inflamed synovial tissue or performing a biopsy.
9. An individual with ankle instability undergoes surgical arthroscopy, and the provider identifies and trims damaged tissue to improve joint stability.