AHA Coding Clinic® for HCPCS - 2011 Quarter 3; ASK the EDITOR
Arthroscopic bursectomy
A patient with chronic trochanteric hip bursitis presents to have arthroscopic bursectomy of the trochanter and iliotibial band release with partial resection of a spur on the greater trochanter. An incision was made on the mid-portion of the trochanter. An arthroscopic trocar, shaver, and Arthrocare wand were utilized to create a tissue plane between the subcutaneous tissue and iliotibial band. Next, a segment of the iliotibial band was resected, the bursectomy was performed, and the small spur was arthroscopically removed with a burr. The incision was closed and patient was in stable condition. What would be the correct CPT code(s) for the procedures performed? ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This premium article reviews coding considerations for an arthroscopic trochanteric bursectomy case with associated iliotibial band release and spur resection. It is aimed at coders, billers, and reimbursement professionals who need to understand how the procedure is categorized for CPT reporting and when an unlisted arthroscopy code is referenced in the discussion.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate procedure coding for arthroscopic hip-region services affects claim accuracy, payer review, and reimbursement workflow. This article helps readers recognize the documentation context and the coding framework discussed for this type of procedure.
What You Will Learn
- How an arthroscopic trochanteric bursectomy case is framed for CPT coding
- How associated soft-tissue release and spur resection are discussed in the context of arthroscopy
- When the article points to an unlisted arthroscopy code versus a specific hip arthroscopy code family
- What documentation elements are relevant to evaluating the reported procedure
Who Should Read This
- CPT coders
- Medical billers
- Revenue cycle staff
- Orthopedic coding specialists
- Physician documentation specialists
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.

Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com