2025 CPT code 29904

Arthroscopic examination of the subtalar joint with removal of loose bodies or foreign bodies.

Follow all applicable CPT coding guidelines and the guidelines referenced in the provided text pertaining to arthroscopy and the removal of loose bodies.

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

The medical necessity for subtalar arthroscopy is established by the presence of symptoms (pain, instability) related to a loose body, foreign material, or other identifiable intra-articular pathology that is refractory to conservative management.

The orthopedic surgeon is responsible for performing the arthroscopy, including making the incisions, inserting the arthroscope and instruments, identifying and removing loose bodies, irrigating the joint, and closing the incisions. An anesthesiologist may be involved in administering anesthesia.

IMPORTANT 29905 (with synovectomy), 29906 (with debridement).If the loose body is smaller than the cannula, it should not be coded separately. If a larger incision is necessary for removal, additional codes may be necessary.

In simple words: The doctor uses a small camera and instruments inserted through tiny cuts to look inside the ankle joint (specifically, the subtalar joint) and remove any loose pieces of bone or other foreign material causing pain or problems.

This procedure involves the arthroscopic examination of the subtalar joint (located between the talus and calcaneus bones) to identify and remove loose bodies or foreign bodies.The surgeon makes small incisions (portals) to insert an arthroscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) and instruments to visualize and remove the debris.Irrigation of the joint with saline may be performed to improve visualization. The procedure is typically performed under general or regional anesthesia.

Example 1: A patient presents with persistent pain in the subtalar joint after a previous ankle sprain.Imaging reveals a loose body within the joint. Subtalar arthroscopy is performed to remove the loose body, relieving the pain., An athlete experiences acute subtalar joint pain after a twisting injury.Arthroscopy is performed to diagnose the injury and remove any loose bodies or foreign materials, along with possible debridement of damaged tissue., A patient suffers a subtalar joint fracture.Arthroscopy is performed to assess the extent of the injury and remove any loose fragments, allowing better visualization for appropriate treatment.

* Preoperative diagnosis including imaging (x-ray, MRI) demonstrating the loose body or foreign material.* Operative report detailing the surgical approach, portals used, instruments utilized, findings within the joint, and tissues removed.* Postoperative diagnosis reflecting the findings at the time of surgery.* Indication of anesthesia used (general or regional).

** The size of the loose body or foreign material is crucial for proper coding.If the foreign body is smaller than the cannula, it may not be separately codable. Consult with appropriate coding resources for the most up-to-date guidelines and any local or payer-specific requirements. Always verify the code and its application with the most current CPT manual and payer guidelines.

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