How To Use CPT Code 28899

CPT 28899 is an unlisted procedure code for foot or toes, used when no specific code is available for a procedure. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, when to use, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes, and examples of CPT 28899.

1. What is CPT 28899?

CPT 28899 is an unlisted procedure code used for procedures performed on the foot or toes that do not have a specific code within the Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) system. Medical professionals use this code when no other appropriate code exists for the service provided. It is essential to follow proper documentation and billing guidelines when using unlisted procedure codes like CPT 28899 to ensure accurate reimbursement.

2. 28899 CPT code description

The official description of CPT code 28899 is: “Unlisted procedure, foot or toes.”

3. Procedure

As CPT 28899 is an unlisted code, the procedure performed can vary significantly. However, some general steps that may be involved in a foot or toe procedure include:

1. Preoperative assessment and evaluation of the patient’s condition.
2. Administration of anesthesia or sedation, if necessary.
3. Preparation of the surgical site, including sterilization and draping.
4. Incision or access to the affected area of the foot or toe.
5. Performance of the specific procedure, which may involve repair, reconstruction, removal, or other interventions.
6. Closure of the incision or surgical site, if applicable.
7. Application of dressings or bandages to protect the area and promote healing.
8. Postoperative monitoring and care, including pain management and follow-up appointments.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT code 28899 services are those who require a foot or toe procedure that does not have a specific code within the CPT system. This may include patients with congenital deformities, traumatic injuries, or other conditions that necessitate a unique or uncommon procedure. The medical provider must determine the appropriateness of using CPT 28899 based on the patient’s specific needs and the procedure performed.

5. When to use CPT code 28899

It is appropriate to bill CPT code 28899 when a provider performs a foot or toe procedure that does not have a specific code within the CPT system. Providers should not use this code to approximate a service or when a more accurate code is available. Instead, they should only use CPT 28899 when no other code accurately represents the service provided.

6. Documentation requirements

When billing for CPT 28899, it is crucial to provide thorough documentation to support the claim. This may include:

• A cover letter explaining the reason for using the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code.
• Comparison of the service provided to one or more similar codes to justify the billed amount.
• Operative notes or other relevant documentation detailing the procedure performed.
• Medical necessity for the procedure, including the patient’s diagnosis and treatment plan.
• Any additional information that may be required by the payer to process the claim.

Payers will consider claims with unlisted procedure codes on a case-by-case basis and determine payment based on the documentation provided.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 28899, it is essential to follow proper guidelines and rules to ensure accurate reimbursement. Some tips for billing this code include:

• Use a Category III code when available in place of an unlisted procedure code.
• Submit a cover letter and supporting documentation with the claim, as detailed in the documentation requirements section.
• Be prepared for possible claim denials and have a plan in place to appeal or resubmit the claim with additional information if necessary.
• Stay up-to-date on payer-specific guidelines and requirements for billing unlisted procedure codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 28899 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the descriptor since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 28899

While CPT 28899 is an unlisted code, there are several other codes related to foot and toe procedures that may be more specific. Some examples include:

1. CPT 28289: This code is used for the correction of a hallux rigidus deformity, which is different from the unlisted procedures covered by CPT 28899.
2. CPT 28296: This code is for bunionectomy procedures, which are more specific than the unlisted procedures in CPT 28899.
3. CPT 28300: This code is for osteotomy procedures on the foot, which are more defined than the unlisted procedures in CPT 28899.
4. CPT 28310: This code is for osteotomy procedures on the toes, which are more specific than the unlisted procedures in CPT 28899.
5. CPT 28344: This code is for the repair of a polydactyly deformity, which is different from the unlisted procedures covered by CPT 28899.

10. Examples

Here are ten detailed examples of CPT code 28899 procedures:

1. Excision of a rare soft tissue tumor in the foot that does not have a specific code.
2. Reconstruction of a congenital foot deformity not covered by other codes.
3. Repair of a complex traumatic injury to the toes that requires a unique surgical approach.
4. Removal of a foreign body embedded deep within the foot that necessitates an uncommon procedure.
5. Resection of a bone spur in an atypical location on the foot.
6. Correction of a rare toe deformity not covered by other codes.
7. Implantation of a custom orthopedic device in the foot that does not have a specific code.
8. Excision of an atypical neuroma in the foot that requires a unique surgical approach.
9. Reconstruction of a foot tendon not covered by other codes.
10. Repair of a complex foot fracture that necessitates an uncommon procedure.