AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2018 Issue 2; Ask the Editor

Arthroscopic Drainage of Knee and Nonexcisional Debridement

A 68-year-old patient presented with fever and gross purulent aspirate of the left knee. The provider diagnosed septic arthritis, severe tricompartmental osteoarthritis, and flexion contracture. Arthroscopic drainage of the knee and minimal non-excisional debridement were performed. Using direct guidance, an anteromedial portal was made. Purulence was encountered, sampled and sent for cultures. Additional portal was made in the superomedial aspect of the knee for outflow. Purulence was thoroughly lavaged, and minimal non-excisional debridement of the medial meniscus and some loose cartilage was accomplished. Hemovac drain was inserted through the superomedial portal, and all wounds were sutured. Is it appropriate to assign codes for both the arthroscopic drainage and non-excisional debridement? ...

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