2020 AMA Symposium: AAOS unveils new guidance for 2-stage joint revision coding

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Note:  The following article synopsis was NOT provided by HCPro. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.

Article Overview

This article covers anticipated coding updates discussed at the AMA’s 2020 CPT/RBRVS Coding Symposium, with a focus on two-stage revision procedures for infected total knee and hip prostheses. It explains the broader circumstances under which coding will change, highlights the role of spacer type in the new guidance, and notes that related guidance from the AMA and AAOS is expected to follow. The piece is relevant to orthopedists, orthopedic coding professionals, and practices preparing for revised reporting approaches and payer review.

Why This Topic Matters

Staged joint revision coding affects orthopedic documentation, claim reporting, and reimbursement workflows for common infection-related procedures. Understanding the upcoming guidance helps practices prepare for changes and anticipate payer scrutiny.

Article Sections

  1. Knee spacer coding changes

    Discusses the upcoming guidance for staged revision scenarios involving infected knee arthroplasty and different spacer types. It also covers the related revision and removal coding context for both stages of treatment.

  2. Hip spacer scenarios

    Summarizes the analogous staged revision situations for infected hip arthroplasty. It addresses the related coding framework for articulating and non-articulating spacers across the two stages.

  3. Single step revision is same as before

    Notes that same-day removal and replacement procedures for knee and hip prostheses continue under the existing general revision framework.

  4. Check with payers before proceeding

    Highlights the expectation of payer scrutiny during adoption of the updated spacer coding approach and advises caution while authoritative guidance is finalized.

What You Will Learn

  • What the article says about upcoming staged joint revision coding guidance
  • How the article frames the difference between knee and hip revision scenarios
  • What kinds of professional guidance are expected from AMA and AAOS
  • Why payer review is discussed in connection with the coding updates

Who Should Read This

  • Orthopedic surgeons
  • Orthopedic coding staff
  • Medical coders
  • Practice managers
  • Revenue cycle professionals

Codes Discussed


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