January 2007 page 31
Coding Communication:Surgery: Musculoskeletal System
Question
What procedures are included when
reporting CPT codes for bunion (hallux valgus)
correction performed at the first metatarsophalangeal
(MTP) joint?
AMA Comment
All of the codes in the 28290-
28299 series include the following procedures
when performed at the first MTP joint: capsulotomy,
arthrotomy, synovial biopsy, neuroplasty,
synovectomy, tendon release, tenotomy, tenolysis,
excision of medial eminence, excision of associated
osteophytes, placement of internal fixation,
scar revision, articular shaving, and
removal of bursal tissue. These are integral components
of the operation and are not to be
reported separately.
Surgery: Musculoskeletal System...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This short CPT Assistant article addresses a musculoskeletal surgery coding question from January 2007. It explains the general scope of procedures discussed in connection with hallux valgus correction at the first metatarsophalangeal joint and is relevant to professional coders, billers, and compliance staff reviewing CPT surgery guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps readers identify whether the article contains CPT musculoskeletal guidance relevant to bunion correction reporting and related operative components.
Article Sections
Coding Communication: Surgery: Musculoskeletal System
A coding question-and-answer format focused on musculoskeletal surgery reporting guidance from CPT Assistant.
What You Will Learn
The article’s general focus within musculoskeletal surgery coding.
The type of CPT guidance provided for a hallux valgus correction question.
The scope of the communication and the procedures discussed at a high level.
intended_audiences":["Medical coders","Coding educators","Compliance staff","Orthopedic surgery billing staff"],
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