CPT® Code 29847

Surgical arthroscopy of the wrist, as described by CPT® Code 29847, involves a minimally invasive procedure aimed at addressing fractures or instability within the wrist joint. This technique utilizes an arthroscope, a specialized instrument equipped with a camera, to visualize the internal structures of the wrist. The procedure begins with the patient positioned supine, which means lying on their back, with the shoulder abducted to facilitate access to the wrist. A pneumatic tourniquet is applied to the upper arm to minimize blood flow to the area, enhancing visibility during the surgery. The forearm is then suspended in a wrist traction device, and weights are applied to the second and third fingers, creating distraction in the wrist joint. This distraction is crucial as it allows for improved visualization of the joint's anatomy and any potential injuries. The surgical approach involves making a portal incision on the posterior aspect of the wrist, through which the arthroscope is introduced. Additional portal incisions may be created as necessary to allow for the insertion of other instruments, such as cannulas, which facilitate the manipulation of tissues and fixation devices. During the procedure, the wrist is thoroughly examined, and if a fracture is identified, the surgeon will remove any fracture fragments and align the bones at the fracture site. To stabilize the fracture, various fixation devices such as pins, wires, or screws are utilized. Once the surgical intervention is complete, the joint is flushed with normal saline to clear any debris, and the arthroscope along with other surgical instruments are removed. Finally, the portal incisions are closed, concluding the procedure.