CPT code 29881 refers to a common knee surgery where the doctor uses a tiny camera to fix a torn meniscus in your knee. This procedure is less invasive and allows for faster recovery.
Procedure Explanation:
This surgical technique involves the doctor inserting a small camera into your knee to see inside. They fix or remove the torn part of the knee cartilage, known as the meniscus, which could be on either the inner or outer side of the knee. Additionally, they might clean up rough areas of the knee joint surface. Other procedures, like those involving the knee bones or ligaments, are not part of this specific operation.
Common Names:
- Knee Scope with Meniscectomy
- Arthroscopic Meniscus Surgery
- Knee Arthroscopy with Cartilage Shaving
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 7.03.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Knee Arthroscopy and Meniscectomy
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair/Removal
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This procedure is commonly used for individuals who have knee pain or swelling due to a torn meniscus, which could happen from sports injuries or sometimes just everyday activities. A typical patient could be an athlete who twisted their knee or an older adult with wear and tear in the joint.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- M23.2: This code represents a torn meniscus in the knee that has been caused by an old injury or degeneration.
- S83.2: This code is used for a current tear of the meniscus that happened due to an acute injury, like twisting the knee suddenly.
- M17.0: This code refers to osteoarthritis localized to the knee, where joint cartilage wears down over time, sometimes leading to a meniscus tear.
Summary
In summary, code 29881 describes a knee surgery to fix or remove a damaged meniscus using a camera-guided method. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 29881 include M23.2 (Old meniscus tear) and S83.2 (Recent meniscus injury).
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.