2025 CPT code 29825
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System Feed
Arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical; with lysis and resection of adhesions, with or without manipulation.
Modifiers may be applicable. Consult official CPT guidelines and NCCI edits to determine appropriate modifier usage based on the specific scenario.
Medical necessity must be established for this procedure. This typically includes documentation of persistent pain and limited range of motion, failure of conservative treatment options (physical therapy, medication), and impact on the patient's ability to perform daily activities.
The surgeon performs the procedure under general anesthesia. They make small incisions around the shoulder joint, insert the arthroscope, and examine the joint. Adhesions are identified and removed using specialized instruments. Manipulation of the shoulder may be performed to assess range of motion. The incisions are then closed, and a sterile dressing is applied. Post-operative instructions are given to the patient.
In simple words: The surgeon inserts a small camera (arthroscope) into your shoulder joint through a tiny incision. This allows them to see inside and remove scar tissue (adhesions) that are causing pain and stiffness. The surgeon may also move your shoulder around (manipulation) to further improve movement.
This code describes a surgical procedure involving arthroscopy of the shoulder joint, including lysis (release) and resection (removal) of adhesions, which may or may not involve manipulation of the shoulder. Adhesions are bands of scar tissue that can form within the joint, restricting movement and causing pain.This procedure aims to restore the shoulder's range of motion and reduce pain by removing these adhesions.
Example 1: A patient with a frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) experiences significant pain and limited range of motion. After conservative treatments fail, they undergo arthroscopic lysis and resection of adhesions (29825) to improve shoulder mobility., Following a shoulder injury, a patient develops scar tissue within the joint, limiting their activities. They opt for arthroscopy with lysis and resection of adhesions to alleviate pain and restore function., A patient with recurrent shoulder dislocations undergoes arthroscopic surgery to stabilize the joint. During the procedure, adhesions are found and addressed with lysis and resection (29825) in addition to the stabilization procedure.
Operative report detailing the procedure, including the type and extent of adhesions, instruments used, any manipulation performed, and findings. Pre-operative imaging studies (X-rays, MRI) may be necessary to assess the joint and the presence of adhesions.Post-operative care instructions provided to the patient. Medical necessity documentation explaining the reason for the procedure, failed conservative treatments, and impact on the patient's functional status.
** Always refer to the most current CPT manual and coding guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
- Global Days: Information regarding the global period associated with this code can be found within the official CPT manual, which details post-operative care included in the reported service.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient Department, Physician's Office (if appropriately equipped)