How To Use CPT Code 29901

CPT 29901 describes the arthroscopy procedure performed on the metacarpophalangeal joint in the hand, specifically involving debridement. 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 29901?

CPT 29901 can be used to describe the arthroscopy procedure performed on the metacarpophalangeal joint in the hand, specifically involving debridement. This code is used when the provider uses an arthroscope, a tiny camera, to examine the joint and remove any dead tissue and loose bodies present within the joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29901 is: ‘Arthroscopy, metacarpophalangeal joint, surgical; with debridement.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider creates small incisions called portals over the affected metacarpophalangeal joint.
2. An arthroscope, a tiny camera, is inserted through one of the incisions to look inside the joint.
3. A surgical instrument is inserted through another incision to debride any damaged cartilage, dead tissue, and loose bodies present within the joint.
4. If necessary, fluid may be introduced into the joint through a third incision to expand the joint for better visualization.
5. The provider examines the joint for any dead tissue and loose bodies and removes them using the surgical instrument.
6. All instruments are removed from the portals, and the incisions are closed and covered with bandages.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to undergo the arthroscopy procedure with debridement using CPT 29901 are those with joint problems in the metacarpophalangeal joint in the hand. The provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for arthroscopic examination and debridement. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who is experienced in arthroscopy techniques.

5. When to use CPT code 29901

CPT code 29901 should be used when the provider performs arthroscopy on the metacarpophalangeal joint in the hand and performs debridement within the joint. This code is specific to the surgical procedure involving the removal of dead tissue and loose bodies. It should not be used for other arthroscopic procedures or for debridement procedures performed on different joints.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29901, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for arthroscopic examination and debridement
• Details of the procedure, including the number and location of incisions, use of arthroscope and surgical instruments, and any additional procedures performed
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Findings during the arthroscopic examination, including the presence of dead tissue and loose bodies
• Description of the debridement performed, including the removal of damaged cartilage, dead tissue, and loose bodies
• Any complications or unexpected events during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29901, ensure that the procedure performed is arthroscopy of the metacarpophalangeal joint with debridement. Use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. It is important to follow the coding guidelines and any specific requirements from the payer. Report any additional procedures or services performed during the same session using the appropriate codes. Ensure accurate and complete documentation to support the billed services.

8. Historical information

CPT 29901 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs arthroscopy on the metacarpophalangeal joint in the hand and debrides damaged cartilage and removes loose bodies.
2. During the arthroscopy procedure, the provider identifies and removes dead tissue and loose bodies from the metacarpophalangeal joint.
3. A patient undergoes arthroscopy with debridement on the metacarpophalangeal joint to address joint problems and improve functionality.
4. The provider uses an arthroscope to examine the metacarpophalangeal joint and performs debridement to remove damaged cartilage and loose bodies.
5. Arthroscopy with debridement is performed on the metacarpophalangeal joint to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
6. The provider utilizes arthroscopy to visualize the metacarpophalangeal joint and performs debridement to remove dead tissue and loose bodies.
7. A patient undergoes arthroscopy with debridement on the metacarpophalangeal joint to address joint inflammation and improve range of motion.
8. The provider performs arthroscopy on the metacarpophalangeal joint and removes damaged cartilage and loose bodies to restore joint function.
9. During the arthroscopy procedure, the provider identifies and removes dead tissue and loose bodies from the metacarpophalangeal joint to alleviate symptoms.
10. A patient undergoes arthroscopy with debridement on the metacarpophalangeal joint to address joint instability and improve joint stability.