Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

Reader Questions:

Choose Correct Heel Spur Code

Question: My podiatrist performed a calcaneal spur resection with plantar fascial release of the left foot. Under C-arm fluoroscopy guidance, they inserted an 18-guage needle from the heel in a distally placed position, aiming toward the spur. The C-arm fluoroscopy confirmed that the trajectory was correct and right on the spur. My podiatrist replaced the 18-gauge needle with a #15 blade, which he inserted percutaneously and all the way to the spur. My podiatrist noted complete release of the medial and central bands of the plantar fascia under the C-arm fluoroscopy. They also noted good release of the bands. They inserted a rasp and carefully resected the calcaneal spur via C-arm fluoroscopy guidance. The C-arm fluoroscopy confirmed excellent reduction of the calcaneal spur and complete resection of the plantar fascia. Finally, my podiatrist used sterile saline to irrigate the incision and close the incision with 4-0 Prolene. Which code should I report on this claim?

North Carolina Subscriber

Answer: You should report 28119 (Ostectomy, calcaneus; for spur, with or without plantar fascial release) in this case.

Code 28119: You should report 28119 regardless of whether your podiatrist made release incisions on the stressed or irritated plantar fascia. You should also check the operative note to confirm any fasciotomy your podiatrist performed.

Ostectomy: An ostectomy is defined as surgical removal of all or part of a bone.

Don’t miss: If your podiatrist excises a heel spur and removes a part of the calcaneus, you should report 28118 (Ostectomy, calcaneus) instead.


Other Articles in this issue of

Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

View All