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2025 CPT code 29860

Diagnostic arthroscopy of the hip, with or without synovial biopsy.

Code 29860 is for a diagnostic arthroscopy only. If any surgical procedures are performed during the same session, the appropriate surgical arthroscopy code (e.g., 29861-29863, 29914-29916) should be reported instead. Modifier 59 should be appended to 29860 if it is performed in conjunction with a major open hip procedure.

Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 59 may be necessary to distinguish a separately identifiable diagnostic arthroscopy from a surgical arthroscopy or open procedure. Modifier 51 might be used if performed with other procedures by the same physician. Other modifiers may be appropriate depending on the circumstances.

Medical necessity must be established for this procedure. This typically requires documentation of persistent hip pain or dysfunction, failed conservative treatment, and a clinical suspicion of a condition diagnosable and/or treatable through arthroscopy.

The surgeon prepares the patient, administers anesthesia, and makes small incisions around the hip joint. An arthroscope is inserted to visualize the joint's interior. Saline solution may be used to expand the joint space for better visualization. The surgeon examines the joint structures, including ligaments and cartilage. If necessary, a synovial biopsy is performed. After the procedure, the instruments are removed, the area is irrigated, and the incisions are closed.

In simple words: A small camera is inserted into your hip joint to look for problems. A tissue sample might also be taken.

This code represents a diagnostic arthroscopic procedure of the hip joint, which may include a synovial biopsy. A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the hip joint to visualize the internal structures. This allows for diagnosis of various hip conditions. The procedure may also involve taking a tissue sample (biopsy) of the synovium, the lining of the joint, for further analysis.

Example 1: A patient presents with chronic hip pain and limited range of motion. A diagnostic hip arthroscopy (29860) is performed to determine the cause of the symptoms and to evaluate the joint for labral tears, cartilage damage, or loose bodies., A patient experiences sudden hip pain after a fall. An MRI suggests a possible labral tear. A diagnostic hip arthroscopy (29860) is performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury., A patient has persistent hip pain and swelling, with suspicion of synovitis. A diagnostic hip arthroscopy (29860) is performed, including a synovial biopsy to analyze the synovial tissue for inflammation or infection.

Documentation should include details of the patient's history, physical exam findings, imaging results, indication for the procedure, visualization of the intra-articular structures, any procedures performed (including biopsy if done), and findings. Photographs or video recordings of the arthroscopic findings are helpful.

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