Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: According to my orthopedist's op note, the patient underwent a medial meniscal repair with debridement of synovitis in the notch and lateral regions and patella femoral synovitis resection. The op note wording, however, is what is throwing me off. Should I: A) bill 29882 with 29877 (G0289) x 2 for the synovitis debridement in the notch and lateral regions and 29875 for the patellofemoral resection, or B) only bill 29882 and 29876-59 because the orthopedist did the synovectomies in two or more compartments? California Subscriber Answer: Choose B. You should most likely report 29882 (Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; with meniscus repair [medial OR lateral]) for the medial meniscal repair or medial compartment. For the patellofemoral resection and lateral compartments, you should report 29876 (Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; synovectomy, major, two or more compartments [e.g., medial or lateral]) with modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service). Rationale: Your B option is mostly correct because [...]