28070 Removal of foot joint lining
Also known as: ankle synovectomy, synovial membrane removal, ankle arthritis debridement
Synovectomy (removal of synovial membrane lining) of an ankle joint. This procedure removes the inflamed or infected joint lining to treat chronic synovitis or infection.
In Plain Language
removing inflamed tissue lining the ankle joint; ankle joint cleaning
Clinical Context
Performed for chronic synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculous arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions. May be performed arthroscopically or open.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.11 |
| Total RVU | 5.11 |
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 5.11, 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 28070?
CPT 28070 (Removal of foot joint lining) is a Surgery code. Synovectomy (removal of synovial membrane lining) of an ankle joint. This procedure removes the inflamed or infected joint lining to treat chronic synovitis or infection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28070?
The work RVU for CPT 28070 is 5.11. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery, rheumatology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28070 used?
Performed for chronic synovitis in rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculous arthritis, or other inflammatory conditions. May be performed arthroscopically or open.
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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.