29881 Arthrs knee srg mnisectmy m/l
Also known as: meniscectomy, meniscus removal, partial meniscectomy, knee arthroscopy with meniscectomy, knee scope meniscus, knee scope meniscectomy
Arthroscopy of the knee with medial or lateral meniscectomy (removal of single meniscus).
In Plain Language
removing knee cartilage pad; meniscus surgery
Clinical Context
Indicated for meniscal tears with mechanical symptoms or degenerative disease requiring removal.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.85 |
| Total RVU | 6.85 |
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 6.85, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29881?
CPT 29881 (Arthrs knee srg mnisectmy m/l) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopy of the knee with medial or lateral meniscectomy (removal of single meniscus).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29881?
The work RVU for CPT 29881 is 6.85. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29881 used?
Indicated for meniscal tears with mechanical symptoms or degenerative disease requiring removal.
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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.