Advanced Search

Orthopedic Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Thermal Capsulorrhaphy With SLAPLesion

Published on Fri Nov 01, 2002

Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the box below for the answer.
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? 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).

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.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

Orthopedic Coding Alert

View All