29800 Jaw arthroscopy/surgery
Also known as: jaw arthroscopy, TMJ arthroscopy, temporomandibular joint scope
Arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint with diagnostic evaluation, with or without synovial biopsy for examination of intra-articular structures.
In Plain Language
jaw joint camera surgery; looking inside jaw joint
Clinical Context
Indicated for temporomandibular joint pathology including meniscal displacement, osteoarthritis, and diagnostic evaluation of jaw pain.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.67 |
| Total RVU | 6.67 |
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 6.67, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29800?
CPT 29800 (Jaw arthroscopy/surgery) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the temporomandibular joint with diagnostic evaluation, with or without synovial biopsy for examination of intra-articular structures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29800?
The work RVU for CPT 29800 is 6.67. This code is primarily used by Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Otolaryngology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29800 used?
Indicated for temporomandibular joint pathology including meniscal displacement, osteoarthritis, and diagnostic evaluation of jaw pain.
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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.