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2025 CPT code 29820

Arthroscopic partial synovectomy of the shoulder.

Follow current CPT coding guidelines for arthroscopy and synovectomy.Surgical endoscopy/arthroscopy always includes a diagnostic component.

Modifiers 51 (multiple procedures), 59 (distinct procedural service), and 76 (repeat procedure) may be applicable depending on the circumstances.

Medical necessity for a partial synovectomy is established when conservative treatments (e.g., physical therapy, medication) have failed to alleviate symptoms of inflammatory synovitis causing significant pain, functional limitations, and reduced quality of life.The procedure should be deemed medically necessary by the treating physician.

The orthopedic surgeon or qualified healthcare professional performs the arthroscopic procedure, including joint distention with saline, visualization, and partial synovectomy. They are responsible for pre-operative and post-operative care.

IMPORTANT For open synovectomy, see code 23105.If a diagnostic arthroscopy is performed and then an open repair is necessary for a previously unknown condition, code both procedures and append modifier 59 to the diagnostic arthroscopy.

In simple words: The doctor uses a tiny camera and small tools to look inside the shoulder joint and remove some inflamed tissue that is causing pain and stiffness.

Arthroscopic surgical procedure involving the shoulder joint.A small camera (arthroscope) and miniature instruments are inserted through small incisions to visualize and excise a portion of the inflamed synovial tissue (synovectomy). Saline solution is used to distend the joint for better visualization.The procedure includes diagnostic arthroscopy.

Example 1: A patient presents with chronic shoulder pain and limited range of motion due to inflammatory synovitis. Arthroscopic partial synovectomy is performed to alleviate symptoms., A patient with rheumatoid arthritis experiences significant shoulder pain and swelling. Arthroscopic synovectomy is performed to reduce inflammation and improve joint function., A patient undergoes a diagnostic arthroscopy and is found to have partial-thickness rotator cuff tear and synovitis. Both the rotator cuff repair (using appropriate CPT code) and the partial synovectomy are performed during the same surgical session. Modifier 51 may be appended.

* Pre-operative diagnosis clearly indicating the need for synovectomy.* Operative report detailing the arthroscopic procedure, including the extent of synovectomy performed.* Post-operative care notes, including pain management and functional assessment.* Imaging studies (if any) supporting the diagnosis.

** The size and location of the synovial tissue excised are not specified in the code.Documentation must clearly indicate the extent of the procedure.

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