29901 Mcp joint arthroscopy surgical
Also known as: MCP arthroscopy with surgery, finger joint repair, digital joint surgery
Arthroscopic surgical treatment of the metacarpophalangeal joint with therapeutic intervention including debridement, loose body removal, or chondral repair.
In Plain Language
finger joint repair during scope; finger joint cleaning and treatment
Clinical Context
Indicated for osteoarthritis, loose bodies, synovitis, chondral lesions, or capsular injuries of the MCP joint causing pain or functional limitations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.43 |
| Total RVU | 6.43 |
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 6.43, this code ranks in the 42nd 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 29901?
CPT 29901 (Mcp joint arthroscopy surgical) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopic surgical treatment of the metacarpophalangeal joint with therapeutic intervention including debridement, loose body removal, or chondral repair.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29901?
The work RVU for CPT 29901 is 6.43. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29901 used?
Indicated for osteoarthritis, loose bodies, synovitis, chondral lesions, or capsular injuries of the MCP joint causing pain or functional limitations.
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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.