29891 Arthr ank ostchn df tal and/or tib
Also known as: ankle scope, ankle arthroscopy, talar OCD repair
Arthroscopic treatment of ankle joint with osteochondral deficit involving the talus and/or tibia, performed endoscopically to visualize, debride, and repair cartilage defects.
In Plain Language
ankle cartilage repair; ankle joint cleaning
Clinical Context
Used for osteochondral lesions of the talus or tibia causing ankle pain, instability, or mechanical symptoms; indicated when conservative treatment fails and imaging confirms articular cartilage damage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.43 |
| Total RVU | 9.43 |
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 9.43, this code ranks in the 56th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29891?
CPT 29891 (Arthr ank ostchn df tal and/or tib) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopic treatment of ankle joint with osteochondral deficit involving the talus and/or tibia, performed endoscopically to visualize, debride, and repair cartilage defects.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29891?
The work RVU for CPT 29891 is 9.43. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29891 used?
Used for osteochondral lesions of the talus or tibia causing ankle pain, instability, or mechanical symptoms; indicated when conservative treatment fails and imaging confirms articular cartilage damage.
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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.