Wiki 2012 Shoulder code changes

[candy6196]

What primary CPT code should our ortho docs use when performing a shoulder subacromial decompression and an arthroscopic debridement since the 29826 has gone to an add-on code in 2012? In the past, I have always coded this surgery with the 29826 as the primary code with the 29822 ( or 23) as the add-on code. Our docs and myself can not find a correct replacement code. Many thanks.

 

[scooter1]

Yes, 29822 becomes your primary procedure ( if you are doing a debridement ).

Here is With regard to shoulder arthroscopy, CPT code 29826—“arthroscopic subacromial decompression”—is now an add-on code to CPT codes 29806–29825, 29827, and 29828. Modifier 51 should not be used and 100 percent reimbursement should be expected.
CPT code 29826 should not be reported with any procedure other than those identified as appropriate parent codes. It is not an add-on code to CPT code 23410 or 23412, and an unlisted code may not be reported to reflect this work. Instead, append modifier 22 or report 29822 or 29823 (limited or extensive débridement) as appropriate
info from an article posted by AAOS.

So your primary codes would be 29806-29825, 29827 or 29828. You cannot use with
23410 or 23412.
Hope this helps

 

[candy6196]

Yes, it does help. We thank you.