What is CPT Code 28234?: Understanding Foot Tendon Surgery






What is CPT Code 28234?: Understanding Foot Tendon Surgery

CPT code 28234 refers to a surgical procedure where a doctor makes an incision to cut a tendon on the top part of the foot or toes. CPT 28234 represents “Tenotomy, open, extensor, foot or toe, each tendon”.

Procedure Explanation:

This procedure involves surgically cutting a tendon found on the top side of the foot or toes, known as a tenotomy, to help with movement or pain relief. It’s specific to each tendon being treated, meaning each tendon requires a separate surgical illustration. This particular procedure does not address any other parts of the foot, such as bones or ligaments.

Common Names:

  1. Open Tendon Release
  2. Foot Extensor Tenotomy
  3. Toe Tenotomy Surgery

Relative Value Units (RVU):

The RVUs associated with this code are 3.54.

How This Procedure Appears:

  • Operating Room Schedule Name: Open Extensor Tendon Surgery
  • Surgical Consent Form Name: Surgery to Cut Tendon on Top of Foot/Toe

Typical Patients and Diagnoses:

This type of surgery is often performed on patients who have difficulty moving their toes properly, pain due to tendon issues, or certain deformities like those caused by conditions like hammertoe or rheumatoid arthritis. Imagine a scenario where someone experiences foot discomfort while walking due to the tendons being too tight or inflamed; this procedure can be a potential solution for relief.

Associated ICD-10 Codes:

  • M20.4: Other hammer toe(s) (acquired) – This code is used when a person develops a toe deformity that looks like a hammer due to tightening tendons.
  • M77.51: Other enthesopathy of ankle and tarsus, right foot – This refers to inflammation or damage where tendons attach in the foot, leading to pain or mobility issues in the right foot.
  • M24.571: Contracture of muscle, right foot – This indicates stiffness or lack of joint mobility in the foot due to muscle imbalances or tight tendons.

Summary

In summary, code 28234 describes a surgical procedure to cut a tendon on the top of the foot or toes to ease movement and discomfort. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 28234 include M20.4 (hammer toe deformity) and M77.51 (tendon attachment inflammation).


Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.


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