29820 Sho arthrs srg prtl synvct
Also known as: partial synovectomy, partial synovial debridement, inflammatory cleanup
Arthroscopy of the shoulder with partial synovectomy (removal of inflamed synovial lining) to manage inflammatory joint disease.
In Plain Language
removing some joint lining; partial joint cleaning
Clinical Context
Indicated for inflammatory arthropathies, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic synovitis causing pain and swelling.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.03 |
| Total RVU | 7.03 |
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 7.03, this code ranks in the 46th 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 29820?
CPT 29820 (Sho arthrs srg prtl synvct) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the shoulder with partial synovectomy (removal of inflamed synovial lining) to manage inflammatory joint disease.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29820?
The work RVU for CPT 29820 is 7.03. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29820 used?
Indicated for inflammatory arthropathies, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic synovitis causing pain and swelling.
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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.