Advanced Search

Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

Reader Questions:

Set Hallux Rigidus Apart From Arthritis

Published on Sun Jun 20, 2010

Question: The podiatrist performed cheilectomy on the left toe for hallux rigidus. Any suggestions on CPT for bone diagnosis, excisional, first metatarsal?Arizona SubscriberAnswer: You should use 28289 (Hallux rigidus correction with cheilectomy, debridement and capsular release of the first metatarsophalangeal joint [MTP]) for the hallux rigidus (735.2) diagnosis.Trap: Many practices confuse hallux rigidus with degenerative arthritis because they are synonymous. The actual cheilectomy surgical procedure is that of removing the bone from the 1st metatarsal head and base of the proximal phalanx. Bone spurs can be caused by arthritis -- the reason, perhaps, for the confusion. Report the appropriate arthritis ICD-9 code for osteoarthritis or degenerative arthritis (715.90) when the medical record reflects this.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

View All