Wiki Excision Triangular Fibrocartilage

[Lisa M. Lowe]

Does anyone know if there is a code for excision of triangular fibrocartilage of the wrist? The operative report states:

A longitudinal incision was made over the dorsal aspect of the carpi ulnar joint. Dissection through the extensor retinaculum and dorsal capsule which was carefully protected. The triangular fibrocartilage was identified. There was a tear in its substance and then it was excised from the ulnar styloid to the radial aspect of the distal ulna. After irrigation, the capsule and extensor retinaculum were repaired with interrupted 2-0 undyed Vicryl.

I have looked at 25107 but it doesn't cover excising the cartilage. Would you code an unlisted code? If so, what code would you compare it to?

Thanks for your help!
Lisa

 

[BCrandall]

Per the Coder's Desk Reference for 25107:

"The defect is idenified and debrided or surured to return to a correct anatomic state."

I would say the defect would be the tear and debrideing would be the same as excising it (both remove the defect).

 

[Lisa M. Lowe]

Thank you for your help! I hadn't thought about it that way!
Lisa