28020 Exploration of foot joint
Also known as: ankle arthrotomy, ankle joint exploration, ankle open exploration
Arthrotomy (surgical opening) of the ankle joint or ankle region. This procedure provides direct visualization and access to the ankle joint for diagnosis or treatment of intra-articular pathology.
In Plain Language
opening the ankle joint; ankle joint surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for loose bodies, synovitis, early arthritis debridement, or assessment of joint damage. Often part of ankle fracture management or infection evaluation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.02 |
| Total RVU | 5.02 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 5.02, this code ranks in the 34th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28020?
CPT 28020 (Exploration of foot joint) is a Surgery code. Arthrotomy (surgical opening) of the ankle joint or ankle region. This procedure provides direct visualization and access to the ankle joint for diagnosis or treatment of intra-articular pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28020?
The work RVU for CPT 28020 is 5.02. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28020 used?
Performed for loose bodies, synovitis, early arthritis debridement, or assessment of joint damage. Often part of ankle fracture management or infection evaluation.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.