28050 Biopsy of foot joint lining
Also known as: synovial biopsy ankle, joint lining biopsy, synovitis biopsy
Biopsy of the synovial membrane (lining) of an ankle joint or ankle region joint. This procedure obtains tissue for histologic analysis to diagnose joint pathology.
In Plain Language
taking a sample of joint lining from the ankle; joint tissue sample
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnosis of inflammatory arthropathies, infection, or other joint pathology. Particularly useful in rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, or fungal infections.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.28 |
| Total RVU | 4.28 |
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 4.28, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28050?
CPT 28050 (Biopsy of foot joint lining) is a Surgery code. Biopsy of the synovial membrane (lining) of an ankle joint or ankle region joint. This procedure obtains tissue for histologic analysis to diagnose joint pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28050?
The work RVU for CPT 28050 is 4.28. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery, rheumatology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28050 used?
Performed for diagnosis of inflammatory arthropathies, infection, or other joint pathology. Particularly useful in rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, or fungal infections.
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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.