29905 Subtalar arthroscopic with excision
Also known as: subtalar joint excision, subtalar synovectomy, subtalar debridement
Arthroscopic excision of subtalar joint pathology including synovitis, osteochondral lesions, or proliferative tissue, performed endoscopically.
In Plain Language
heel joint tissue removal; heel joint cartilage repair
Clinical Context
Indicated for subtalar osteoarthritis, synovitis, osteochondral lesions, or anterior subtalar impingement causing pain and mechanical symptoms.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 8.95 |
| Total RVU | 8.95 |
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 8.95, this code ranks in the 55th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 29905?
CPT 29905 (Subtalar arthroscopic with excision) is a Surgery code. Arthroscopic excision of subtalar joint pathology including synovitis, osteochondral lesions, or proliferative tissue, performed endoscopically.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 29905?
The work RVU for CPT 29905 is 8.95. This code is primarily used by Foot and Ankle Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 29905 used?
Indicated for subtalar osteoarthritis, synovitis, osteochondral lesions, or anterior subtalar impingement causing pain and mechanical symptoms.
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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.