Orthopedic Coding Alert
Reader Question:
Radiofrequency
Published on Tue Jan 01, 2002
Question: My physician performed an arthroscopic radiofrequency thermal debriding of unstable articular cartilage in all three compartments of the knee. How should I code for this?
Ohio Subscriber
Answer: Since the method of correcting the problem here is a thermal debridement, rather than a surgical one, the unspecified arthroscopy code (29999, unlisted procedure, arthroscopy) should be used rather than 29877 (arthroscopy, knee, surgical; debridement/shaving of articular cartilage [chondroplasty]). Submit the operative report and a KISS letter explaining that the arthroscopy was used as a guide for the thermal debridement with the claim.
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