29823 Sho arthrs srg xtnsv debridement
Also known as: extensive debridement, aggressive debridement, comprehensive cleanup, shoulder arthroscopy with extensive debridement
Arthroscopy of the shoulder with extensive debridement of cartilage, bone, or soft tissue removing significant amounts of diseased structures.
In Plain Language
removing lots of damaged tissue; extensive joint cleanup
Clinical Context
Used for advanced osteoarthritis, severe chondral loss, and extensive inflammatory or degenerative disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.78 |
| Total RVU | 7.78 |
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 7.78, this code ranks in the 49th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29823?
CPT 29823 (Sho arthrs srg xtnsv debridement) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the shoulder with extensive debridement of cartilage, bone, or soft tissue removing significant amounts of diseased structures.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29823?
The work RVU for CPT 29823 is 7.78. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29823 used?
Used for advanced osteoarthritis, severe chondral loss, and extensive inflammatory or degenerative disease.
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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.