Orthopedic Coding Alert
Thermal Capsulorrhaphy With SLAPLesion
Michigan Subscriber
Answer: You should report the arthroscopic SLAP repair using 29807 (Arthroscopy ... repair of slap lesion) and the thermal capsulorrhaphy with 29999 (Unlisted procedure, arthroscopy).
Question: One of our surgeons performs thermal capsulorrhaphy and SLAP lesions at the same operative session. CPT recommends using 29999 (Unlisted procedure, arthroscopy) for thermal capsulorrhaphy. Should we use both 29806 (Arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical; capsulorrhaphy) and 29999 for these services?
There is no need to report 29806 (Arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical; capsulorrhaphy). Be aware, however, that many carriers consider thermal capsulor-rhaphy experimental and will not cover it, so obtaining written preoperative approval is a must.
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