CPT code 29874 refers to a minimally invasive surgical procedure on the knee conducted to remove unwanted or loose pieces such as bone or cartilage fragments.
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves making small cuts around the knee and using a camera to see inside the joint. Through these small openings, the surgeon can find and take out any loose bits of bone or cartilage that should not be there. It is important to note that this specific code is related to removing these fragments, and does not include any other types of knee repairs or procedures.
Common Names:
- Knee Arthroscopy for Loose Body Removal
- Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
- Scoped Knee Foreign Body Removal
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 7.19.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Knee Arthroscopy – Loose Body Removal
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Knee Arthroscopy for Removal of Loose Bone/Cartilage
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients who have pieces of bone or cartilage floating in their knee joint, which can happen because of injuries or conditions like osteochondritis dissecans—a situation where the bone underneath the cartilage of a joint dies due to lack of blood flow. For example, athletes who frequently put stress on their knees might develop these issues. Removing the loose pieces helps relieve pain and restores movement.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M23.2: This code indicates a loose body found in the knee joint, which can cause pain or restrict movement.
- M94.20: This code describes a condition known as osteochondritis dissecans, where a piece of cartilage and bone in the joint becomes loose.
- S83.3: This code refers to a tear or injury in the knee’s meniscus, which might lead to floating fragments in the joint.
Summary
In summary, code 29874 describes a procedure where surgeons remove unwanted pieces of bone or cartilage from the knee using a camera technique. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 29874 include M23.2 (Loose body in the knee) and M94.20 (Osteochondritis dissecans).
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.