29855 Tibial arthroscopy/surgery
Also known as: tibial arthroscopy, tibiofemoral scope, distal femur tibial scope
Arthroscopy of the tibiofemoral joint with diagnostic evaluation and treatment of tibia and femur articulation pathology.
In Plain Language
camera surgery on shin bone joint; looking at leg bone joint
Clinical Context
Indicated for tibiofemoral osteoarthritis, osteochondral lesions, and loose bodies in the distal knee.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 10.49 |
| Total RVU | 10.49 |
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 10.49, this code ranks in the 60th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29855?
CPT 29855 (Tibial arthroscopy/surgery) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the tibiofemoral joint with diagnostic evaluation and treatment of tibia and femur articulation pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29855?
The work RVU for CPT 29855 is 10.49. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29855 used?
Indicated for tibiofemoral osteoarthritis, osteochondral lesions, and loose bodies in the distal knee.
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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.