CPT 29826: Arthroscopic Shoulder Decompression and Coracoacromial Repair
CPT code 29826 represents arthroscopic shoulder decompression with repair of the coracoacromial ligament and related shoulder blade structures to address impingement that causes pain and functional limitation. This surgical code is clinically important because shoulder impingement is a common cause of shoulder pain and arthroscopic decompression is a frequent operative intervention that impacts surgical volume, outpatient resource use, and post-operative care pathways nationwide. Key payers in the analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will gain a concise understanding of the procedure’s clinical intent and typical care setting, plus practical billing context: common modifiers associated with the service, typical sites of service, and the code’s role in surgical service lines. The publication also provides benchmarks and policy-relevant notes where available, explains typical documentation elements that support medical necessity, and highlights related service-line considerations for ambulatory surgical centers and hospital outpatient departments. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 29826 describes an arthroscopic procedure in which the provider inspects the interior of the shoulder joint with an arthroscope, inserts additional instruments, and repairs the shoulder blade and coracoacromial ligament to relieve impingement-related irritation and pain. The procedure is focused on decompression of the subacromial space and repair of structures contributing to shoulder impingement.
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Service type: Arthroscopic shoulder decompression and ligament repair
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Typical site of service: Ambulatory surgical center or hospital outpatient department