29819 Sho arthrs srg removal loose/foreign body
Also known as: loose body removal, foreign body removal, shoulder clean out
Arthroscopy of the shoulder with removal of loose bodies and foreign materials from the joint space.
In Plain Language
removing debris from shoulder; cleaning shoulder joint
Clinical Context
Performed for loose bodies from osteoarthritis, fractures, or synovial osteochondromatosis causing mechanical symptoms.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.60 |
| Total RVU | 7.60 |
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 7.60, this code ranks in the 48th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29819?
CPT 29819 (Sho arthrs srg removal loose/foreign body) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the shoulder with removal of loose bodies and foreign materials from the joint space.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29819?
The work RVU for CPT 29819 is 7.60. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29819 used?
Performed for loose bodies from osteoarthritis, fractures, or synovial osteochondromatosis causing mechanical symptoms.
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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.