2025 CPT code 29883
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Arthroscopy Musculoskeletal System Feed
Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; with meniscus repair (medial and lateral).
Modifiers such as 51 (multiple procedures), 76 (repeat procedure), or 59 (distinct procedural service) may be applicable depending on the circumstances. Anesthesia modifiers (47) may also be used.
Medical necessity is established when conservative treatment options (e.g., physical therapy, medication) have failed to alleviate the patient’s symptoms, and arthroscopic meniscus repair is deemed the most appropriate course of action to restore joint function and alleviate pain.
The surgeon performs the arthroscopy, including making incisions, inserting the arthroscope and instruments, repairing the meniscus tears, irrigating the joint, and closing the incisions. Anesthesiologist may be involved in administering anesthesia.Pre-operative and post-operative care is usually provided by the surgeon or other healthcare professionals.
In simple words: The doctor uses a small camera (arthroscope) to look inside the knee joint and repair torn cartilage (meniscus) on both sides of the knee. This helps reduce pain and improve knee movement.
This CPT code describes a surgical arthroscopy of the knee joint involving repair of the meniscus in both the medial and lateral compartments.The procedure includes the insertion of an arthroscope into the knee joint, visualization of the menisci, and surgical repair of any tears using appropriate instruments and sutures. Saline solution is used to distend the joint for better visualization. The procedure aims to restore the knee's function and relieve pain.
Example 1: A 35-year-old athlete suffers a meniscus tear during a sports game.Arthroscopy with medial and lateral meniscus repair (29883) is performed to address the tear, restoring knee stability and allowing the athlete to return to sports. , A 50-year-old patient experiences chronic knee pain due to degenerative meniscus tears in both compartments. Arthroscopy with meniscus repair (29883) is performed to alleviate pain and improve joint mobility. This is a less invasive alternative to knee replacement., A 22-year-old patient presents with acute knee pain and instability following a motor vehicle accident.Arthroscopic examination reveals significant meniscal tears in both the medial and lateral compartments. 29883 is used to document the arthroscopic meniscus repair of both sides.
* Preoperative diagnosis (e.g., MRI findings, physical examination notes).* Operative report detailing the procedure performed (incisions, instruments used, repair techniques, etc.)* Postoperative notes documenting the patient's recovery and any complications.* Imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, MRI) to evaluate the condition before and after surgery.
** Accurate coding relies on complete and detailed documentation of the procedure and the patient's condition.The surgeon's judgment determines the extent of the repair and the appropriate code.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable for this code.
- Specialties:Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient Department