Biceps Release & Tenodesis

[cayoung]

Shoulder Arthroscopy Op Report:
The biceps tendon was visualized to have some tearing at its base and this was tagged with PDS suture through the rotator interval and then released with VAPR cautery device. A complete release of the biceps tendon at its base at the superior labrum biceps tendon interval was performed. The sutures that were passed in the biceps tendon were exchanged for Orthocord suture and through an anterolateral portal this biceps tendon was then tenodesed to the intertubercular groove with the Orthocord suture. This stabilized the biceps tendon nicely and a tenodesis was peformed.
The biceps tenodesis is 29828. Can the biceps release be billed separately as 29999?

[mworcester]

The tendon release is part of the tenodesis. I don't have access to an AAOS Global Guideline book, but it would logically be part of the tenodesis (suture of the tendon to the bone). Your in the same joint capsule, same tendon, the scope has not been inserted through a separate portal to perform a separate procedure.

There is no distinctly separate procedure performed.

[cayoung]

I agree - thank you for your thoughts, too!