28072 Removal of foot joint lining
Also known as: foot synovectomy, midfoot synovectomy, toe joint synovectomy
Synovectomy (removal of synovial membrane lining) of the midfoot, tarsal, or toe joint. This procedure removes inflamed or infected joint lining from foot joints.
In Plain Language
removing inflamed tissue lining from a foot joint; foot joint cleaning
Clinical Context
Used for chronic synovitis of midfoot or toe joints. Common in rheumatoid arthritis affecting the forefeet or tarsal joints.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.60 |
| Total RVU | 4.60 |
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 4.60, this code ranks in the 31st percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28072?
CPT 28072 (Removal of foot joint lining) is a Surgery code. Synovectomy (removal of synovial membrane lining) of the midfoot, tarsal, or toe joint. This procedure removes inflamed or infected joint lining from foot joints.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28072?
The work RVU for CPT 28072 is 4.60. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery, rheumatology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28072 used?
Used for chronic synovitis of midfoot or toe joints. Common in rheumatoid arthritis affecting the forefeet or tarsal joints.
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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.