Reader Questions:
Manipulation of PIP Joints
Published on Mon Feb 01, 1999
Question: What is the correct CPT code for manipulation of the PIP joints under anesthesia with a diagnosis of arthrofibrosis?
Coder, Rockville, MD
Answer: There is no code currently to describe this procedure, so the unlisted code 26989 should be used with a detailed description of the procedure. Manipulation of PIP joints under anesthesia is usually an integral part of another procedure, such as a capsulectomy, capsulotomy, arthroplasty, or release and is not coded separately, in such cases.