How To Use CPT Code 29906

CPT 29906 describes the arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint, which is located near the heel of the foot. 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 29906?

CPT 29906 can be used to describe the arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint. This code is used when a provider uses an arthroscope, a tiny camera, to look inside the joint and remove any dead tissue or debris present within the joint.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29906 is: ‘Arthroscopy, subtalar joint, surgical; with debridement.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider creates small incisions called portals over the affected subtalar 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 remove any dead or diseased tissue from the joint.
4. If necessary, fluid may be introduced into the joint through a third incision to improve visualization.
5. After the examination and debridement, the incisions are closed and bandaged.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29906 is used when a patient requires arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint. This procedure is typically performed on patients with joint problems or conditions affecting the subtalar joint. The provider must use an arthroscope to visualize the joint and remove any dead or diseased tissue.

5. When to use CPT code 29906

CPT code 29906 should be used when a provider performs arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint. It is important to note that this code should not be used for other procedures involving the subtalar joint, such as removal of loose or foreign bodies (use CPT code 29904) or synovectomy (use CPT code 29905).

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29906, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure
• Details of the arthroscopic examination, including any findings
• Description of the debridement performed
• Number and location of incisions
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29906, ensure that the procedure performed is an arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines for reporting this code. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling issues and modifiers that may be required for accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 29906 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2008. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with chronic ankle pain undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint to remove diseased tissue.
2. A professional athlete with a sports-related injury requires arthroscopic examination and debridement of the subtalar joint to improve joint function.
3. A patient with arthritis in the subtalar joint undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
4. A patient with a history of trauma to the subtalar joint undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to remove debris and promote healing.
5. A patient with a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the subtalar joint undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to reduce inflammation and improve joint function.
6. A patient with a history of infection in the subtalar joint undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to remove infected tissue and prevent further complications.
7. A patient with a subtalar joint impingement undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
8. A patient with a subtalar joint cyst undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to remove the cyst and relieve symptoms.
9. A patient with a subtalar joint osteochondral defect undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to remove the damaged cartilage and promote healing.
10. A patient with a subtalar joint synovitis undergoes arthroscopic examination and debridement to remove inflamed synovial tissue and reduce pain.