2025 CPT code 27330

Arthrotomy of the knee with synovial biopsy only.

Refer to the official CPT codebook and related guidelines for comprehensive coding instructions.

Modifiers LT (left side) and RT (right side) may be applicable depending on payer requirements.

The procedure is medically necessary when other diagnostic methods have failed to determine the cause of knee pain or when there is suspicion of inflammatory joint disease, infection, or other conditions affecting the synovium.Documentation must support the medical necessity.

The orthopedic surgeon or qualified healthcare professional performs the arthrotomy, obtains the synovial biopsy specimen, and ensures hemostasis and closure of the incision.Pathology interprets the biopsy results.

IMPORTANT If joint exploration, removal of loose bodies, or synovectomy are performed in addition to the synovial biopsy, code 27331 should be used instead.Codes 27332-27335 are used for arthrotomies with meniscectomy or synovectomy.

In simple words: The doctor makes a small cut in the knee joint to take a sample of the tissue lining the joint for testing.No other procedures are done during this visit.

This procedure involves a surgical incision (arthrotomy) into the knee joint to obtain a biopsy of the synovial tissue.The procedure is limited to the synovial biopsy; no other procedures, such as exploration, removal of loose bodies, or synovectomy, are included.

Example 1: A patient presents with persistent knee pain and swelling despite conservative treatment.A synovial biopsy is performed to rule out inflammatory arthritis or infection., A patient with known rheumatoid arthritis undergoes a synovial biopsy to assess disease activity and response to treatment., A patient with a history of knee trauma and persistent symptoms undergoes a synovial biopsy to evaluate for possible damage to the synovium.

* Preoperative and postoperative diagnostic and procedural notes.* Pathology report of the synovial biopsy.* Documentation supporting medical necessity for the procedure.* Images (if any) obtained during the procedure.

** Always refer to the most current CPT manual and payer guidelines for the most accurate and updated information on coding and reimbursement.

  • Revenue Code: P5B (Ambulatory Procedures - Musculoskeletal)
  • RVU: This information is not available in the provided text.Consult the current CPT codebook or your payer's fee schedule for RVU values.
  • Global Days : This information is not available in the provided text.The global period will vary depending on payer and other factors.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: This information is not available in the provided text. Consult the CPT codebook and relevant guidelines.
  • Fee Schedule : This information is not available in the provided text.Consult historical CPT fee schedules or payer-specific data.
  • Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology
  • Place of Service:Office, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital (Inpatient or Outpatient)
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