CPT code 29877 refers to a medical procedure that allows doctors to look inside the knee using a camera and remove or smooth damaged cartilage.
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure is known as knee arthroscopy with chondroplasty. In simple terms, a doctor makes small cuts around your knee to insert a tiny camera, allowing them to examine the joint. If they find rough or damaged cartilage, they can smooth it out or remove it to help improve knee function. The procedure focuses on treating damaged cartilage and does not involve other repairs like fixing torn ligaments.
Common Names:
- Knee Arthroscopy
- Knee Scope with Chondroplasty
- Cartilage Shaving
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 8.3.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Knee scope with cartilage smoothing
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Knee arthroscopy with cartilage removal
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is often used for patients experiencing knee pain due to damaged cartilage. Common situations include athletes with wear and tear from sports, older adults with arthritis, or people recovering from a knee injury. The goal is to reduce pain and improve mobility by addressing the cartilage issue.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M17.11: This code refers to the cartilage breakdown due to osteoarthritis in the right knee.
- M23.30: Represents a loose piece of cartilage in the knee joint that can cause pain and catching.
- S83.2XXA: This is for an initial encounter for a tear in the knee cartilage, typically after a recent knee injury.
Summary
In summary, code 29877 describes a knee procedure that involves using a camera to assess the joint and fix damaged cartilage. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 29877 include M17.11 (Osteoarthritis of the right knee) and M23.30 (Loose cartilage in the knee).
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.