Orthopedic Coding Alert

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Synovectomy Including Debridement of Cyclops Lesion

Question: How would I code arthroscopic partial synovectomy including debridement of cyclops lesion? There was a very large cyclops lesion of scar tissue that looked like it was emanating from the tibial tunnel. It was just anterior to the ACL tendon. I would estimate that this was 2 cm in diameter. This was debrided with a shaver. It was very thick, hyalinized type scar tissue. Once this was completely excised, I examined the ACL graft, which looked great. Should I report 29875? 29877? What is the ICD-9 code for a cyclops lesion?

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Answer: When your orthopedist performs a synovectomy, the debridement of cyclops lesion would be an inclusive procedure. Therefore, you should report 29875 (Arthroscopy, knee, surgical; synovectomy, limited [e.g., plica or shelf resection] [separate procedure]). You can code the cyclops lesion with 719.86 (Other specified disorders of lower leg joint).