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2025 CPT code 29884

Arthroscopic surgery of the knee to lyse adhesions, with or without manipulation.

Surgical endoscopy/arthroscopy always includes a diagnostic endoscopy/arthroscopy. When arthroscopy is performed in conjunction with arthrotomy, add modifier 51.Modifiers may be necessary to reflect the nature and extent of the procedure.

Modifiers such as 51 (multiple procedures), 76 (repeat procedure), or laterality modifiers (RT, LT) may be applicable depending on the circumstances.

Medical necessity is established based on documentation of persistent knee pain and functional limitation due to arthrofibrosis or adhesions that have not responded to conservative management (physical therapy, medication).

The orthopedic surgeon performs the procedure. Responsibilities include pre-operative assessment, obtaining informed consent, performing the arthroscopic lysis of adhesions,post-operative care instructions, and follow-up. Anesthesiologist may also be involved.

IMPORTANT If arthroscopy is performed with arthrotomy, add modifier 51.If only adhesions are lysed without manipulation, this code might still apply, but a review of the procedure notes and documentation is necessary to ascertain code accuracy.

In simple words: This surgery uses a small camera (arthroscope) and instruments inserted through tiny cuts in the knee to remove scar tissue that's causing stiffness. The doctor might also gently move the knee to improve its range of motion.

Arthroscopy of the knee joint with lysis of adhesions and manipulation, if necessary.The procedure involves the insertion of an arthroscope into the knee joint through small incisions to visualize and release adhesions (scar tissue) restricting joint movement.Manipulation of the joint may be performed to restore range of motion. Saline solution is used to distend the joint for better visualization.The procedure includes debridement of adhesions using instruments such as a shaver or other devices.

Example 1: A patient presents with post-traumatic arthrofibrosis following a knee injury. Arthroscopic lysis of adhesions is performed to restore range of motion., A patient experiences significant stiffness and limited range of motion in the knee after total knee arthroplasty. Arthroscopic lysis of adhesions is used to improve knee function., A patient has persistent knee pain and restricted movement due to adhesions from a previous knee surgery. Arthroscopic surgery with lysis of adhesions is done to alleviate the pain and improve mobility.

* Preoperative diagnosis of knee arthrofibrosis or adhesions.* Operative report detailing the arthroscopic procedure including the type and extent of adhesions, instruments used, and manipulation if performed.* Intraoperative images.* Postoperative assessment of range of motion and pain levels.* Physical therapy notes detailing progress and compliance with treatment.

** The surgeon's judgment determines the extent of adhesion lysis and the need for manipulation.Accurate documentation of the procedure is crucial for appropriate coding and reimbursement.

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