29838 Elbow arthroscopy/surgery
Also known as: PIN syndrome treatment, nerve decompression elbow, arthroscopic nerve release
Arthroscopy of the elbow with arthroscopic treatment of posterior interosseous nerve syndrome or other nerve entrapment.
In Plain Language
freeing pinched nerve in elbow; releasing elbow nerve pressure
Clinical Context
Used for posterior interosseous nerve compression and other nerve entrapment pathology at the elbow.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.68 |
| Total RVU | 7.68 |
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 7.68, 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 29838?
CPT 29838 (Elbow arthroscopy/surgery) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the elbow with arthroscopic treatment of posterior interosseous nerve syndrome or other nerve entrapment.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29838?
The work RVU for CPT 29838 is 7.68. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29838 used?
Used for posterior interosseous nerve compression and other nerve entrapment pathology at the elbow.
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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.