How To Use CPT Code 29907

CPT 29907 describes the surgical procedure known as arthroscopy with subtalar arthrodesis. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 29907?

CPT 29907 can be used to describe the surgical procedure of arthroscopy with subtalar arthrodesis. This code is used when the provider performs an arthroscopic examination of the subtalar joint, which is located near the heel of the foot. During the procedure, the provider fuses the joint using a graft or implants.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 29907 is: ‘Arthroscopy, subtalar joint, surgical; with subtalar arthrodesis.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Two to three small incisions, called portals, are created over the affected subtalar joint.
3. An arthroscope, a tiny camera, is inserted through one of the incisions to visualize the joint.
4. A surgical instrument is inserted through another incision to perform the arthroscopic examination and treatment.
5. If necessary, fluid may be introduced into the joint to improve visualization.
6. The provider examines the subtalar joint and fuses it using a bone graft and internal fixation implants, such as screws or nails.
7. All instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed and bandaged.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 29907 is performed on patients who require arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis. The procedure is typically performed on patients with joint problems in the subtalar joint, which is the joint between the heel bone and the talus bone of the foot. The provider may use a bone graft and internal fixation implants to fuse the joint.

5. When to use CPT code 29907

CPT code 29907 should be used when the provider performs arthroscopy of the subtalar joint and performs subtalar arthrodesis during the same surgical session. This code should not be used for procedures involving the removal of loose or foreign bodies, synovectomy, or debridement of the subtalar joint.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 29907, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure and the need for subtalar arthrodesis
• Details of the arthroscopic examination, including any findings or abnormalities
• Description of the bone graft and internal fixation implants used
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same surgical session
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 29907, ensure that the procedure involves arthroscopy of the subtalar joint with subtalar arthrodesis. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines for reporting this code accurately. Additionally, be aware of other codes that may be appropriate for related procedures, such as the removal of loose or foreign bodies (CPT 29904), synovectomy (CPT 29905), or debridement (CPT 29906).

8. Historical information

CPT 29907 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 provider performs arthroscopy with subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with severe subtalar joint arthritis.
2. During a surgical procedure, a provider uses CPT 29907 to perform arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with a traumatic injury to the subtalar joint.
3. A patient with chronic subtalar joint pain undergoes arthroscopy with subtalar arthrodesis using CPT 29907.
4. A provider performs arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with a congenital deformity of the subtalar joint.
5. Using CPT 29907, a provider performs arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with a history of failed conservative treatment for subtalar joint instability.
6. A patient with subtalar joint degeneration undergoes arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis using CPT 29907 to alleviate pain and improve joint function.
7. During a surgical procedure, a provider uses CPT 29907 to perform arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with a history of recurrent subtalar joint dislocations.
8. A provider performs arthroscopy with subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with subtalar joint impingement syndrome.
9. Using CPT 29907, a provider performs arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis on a patient with subtalar joint instability due to ligamentous laxity.
10. A patient with subtalar joint osteoarthritis undergoes arthroscopy and subtalar arthrodesis using CPT 29907 to relieve pain and improve joint function.