Summary & Overview
CPT 29882: Arthroscopic Knee Surgery with Meniscus Repair
CPT code 29882 represents a surgical arthroscopy of the knee with repair of either the medial or lateral meniscus. This procedure is a cornerstone in orthopedic surgery for treating meniscal injuries, which are common among both athletes and the general population. The code is utilized in ambulatory surgery centers and hospital outpatient settings, reflecting its prevalence in minimally invasive knee repair.
Major national payers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, Medicare, and UnitedHealthcare, provide coverage for this procedure, making it relevant for a broad spectrum of patients and providers. The publication offers insights into payer coverage, clinical benchmarks, and policy updates related to CPT 29882. Readers will gain an understanding of the clinical context for meniscus repair, typical sites of service, and how this code fits within the broader landscape of orthopedic billing and reimbursement.
Key topics include the role of CPT 29882 in knee injury management, payer policies, and its relationship to other orthopedic procedures. The summary also highlights associated modifiers and taxonomies, as well as relevant ICD-10 diagnoses and related CPT codes, providing a comprehensive overview for stakeholders in medical billing, policy, and clinical practice.
CPT Code Overview
CPT 29882 describes a surgical arthroscopy procedure of the knee, specifically for the repair of either the medial or lateral meniscus. This minimally invasive orthopedic surgery is commonly performed to address meniscal tears and restore knee function. The typical site of service for this procedure is an Ambulatory Surgery Center or Hospital Outpatient setting, such as Place of Service 24 or 22. This code is widely used in orthopedic practices and is a key component in the treatment of knee injuries.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient scenario involves an adult presenting with knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms such as locking or catching, often following a sports injury or trauma. Physical examination and imaging (e.g., MRI) reveal a meniscal tear. The patient is scheduled for arthroscopic knee surgery, specifically a meniscus repair, to address either a medial or lateral meniscus tear. The procedure is performed in an ambulatory surgery center or hospital outpatient setting by an orthopedic surgeon. Postoperative care includes physical therapy and follow-up to monitor healing and function.
Coding Specifications
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Modifiers:
Modifier Code Description Usage RTRight side Used when the procedure is performed on the right knee LTLeft side Used when the procedure is performed on the left knee