CPT® Code 29875

A surgical arthroscopy of the knee, specifically identified by CPT® Code 29875, involves a procedure known as limited synovectomy. The synovium is a specialized tissue that lines the knee joint and is responsible for producing synovial fluid, which lubricates the joint. In certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or synovial proliferative disorders, the synovium can become inflamed, leading to an overproduction of synovial fluid and resulting in joint effusion. This procedure is performed through small incisions, referred to as portal incisions, made on the medial and lateral sides of the knee joint. An arthroscope, a thin tube with a camera, is inserted through one of these portals to visualize the interior of the knee. A second portal allows for the insertion of a cannula, through which saline solution is introduced to flush the joint, facilitating a clearer view of any pathological changes. The surgeon examines the knee for signs of disease, injury, or infection. Following this examination, a motorized shaver is utilized to carefully remove the inflamed synovial tissue. It is crucial to excise all affected synovium while preserving the integrity of surrounding vascular and nervous structures. This code is specifically used for a partial synovectomy, which entails the removal of synovium from a single compartment of the knee or for the excision of a plica or shelf, which are extensions of the synovium. For a complete synovectomy, where synovial tissue is removed from two or more compartments, CPT® Code 29876 should be used. After the synovectomy is completed, the surgeon controls any bleeding using electrocautery, removes the arthroscope and cannula, and closes the portal incisions. Finally, a compressive dressing is applied to the knee to support the healing process.