How To Use CPT Code 29898

CPT 29898 describes a specific arthroscopy procedure performed on the ankle 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 29898?

CPT 29898 is a code used to describe an arthroscopy procedure performed on the ankle joint. This procedure involves the use of an arthroscope, a specialized instrument with a camera, to examine and repair the tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints of the ankle. The provider may also perform extensive debridement, which involves the removal of damaged tissue and bone spurs to alleviate pain and improve joint function.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29898 is: ‘Arthroscopy, ankle (tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints), surgical; debridement, extensive.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring they are properly prepped and anesthetized.
2. Small incisions are made in the ankle area to allow access for the arthroscope and other instruments.
3. The provider inserts the arthroscope through one of the incisions and fills the joint area with saline solution to create a clear view.
4. Using the camera on the arthroscope, the provider examines the tibiotalar and fibulotalar joints, identifying any damaged tissue or bone spurs.
5. Extensive debridement is performed, which involves the removal of damaged tissue and bone spurs using specialized instruments.
6. The provider irrigates the joint area, checks for any bleeding, removes the instruments, and closes the incisions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29898 is used for patients who require extensive debridement of the ankle joint due to conditions such as arthritis or injury. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare provider who is trained in arthroscopy techniques. The patient must have a documented need for the procedure, and the provider must determine that the benefits of the debridement outweigh the potential risks.

5. When to use CPT code 29898

CPT code 29898 should be used when a provider performs an arthroscopy procedure on the ankle joint and performs extensive debridement of damaged tissue and bone spurs. This code is specifically for cases where the debridement is extensive, as opposed to limited debridement which would be reported with a different code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29898, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for extensive debridement
• Details of the arthroscopy procedure, including the specific joints examined
• Description of the extent of debridement performed, including any bone spurs removed
• Date of the procedure and the duration of the surgery
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29898, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for extensive debridement of the ankle joint. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with a diagnostic code, as it is specifically for surgical procedures. Additionally, if the debridement performed is limited or minimal, a different code should be used. It is important to review the documentation and accurately report the appropriate code based on the extent of debridement performed.

8. Historical information

CPT 29898 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 severe ankle arthritis undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to remove damaged tissue and bone spurs.
2. An athlete with a sports-related ankle injury requires arthroscopy with extensive debridement to repair damaged ligaments and remove debris.
3. A patient with chronic ankle pain undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to alleviate discomfort and improve joint function.
4. A patient with a history of ankle fractures undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to address residual bone spurs and scar tissue.
5. A patient with ankle osteoarthritis undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to remove damaged cartilage and bone spurs.
6. A patient with ankle instability undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to repair ligament damage and remove loose bodies.
7. A patient with ankle impingement syndrome undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to address impinging structures and improve joint mobility.
8. A patient with ankle synovitis undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to remove inflamed synovial tissue and improve joint function.
9. A patient with ankle osteochondral lesions undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to address the damaged cartilage and promote healing.
10. A patient with ankle tendonitis undergoes arthroscopy with extensive debridement to remove damaged tendon tissue and alleviate pain.