The patient was diagnosed with retrocalcaneal bursitis and Haglunds deformity of calcaneus. An inci-sion was made along the lateral aspect of the distal Achilles tendon and the tendon was reflected thereby expos-ing the calcaneus. The retrocalcaneal bursa was excised. Next, an osteotome was used to remove the Haglunds deformity down to the Achilles insertion. A rasp was used to ensure that there were no residual osseous spurs. Debridement of the necrotic area of the Achilles tendon was performed, and the incision was closed in layers with sutures. Is it appropriate to report CPT code 28120 , Partial excision (craterization, saucerization, sequestrectomy, or diaphysectomy) bone (eg, osteomyelitis or bossing); talus or calcaneus, for this procedure? ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article addresses a procedural coding question for foot and ankle surgery, focusing on a calcaneal/bursal operative case and how it relates to CPT reporting. It is aimed at coders and billing staff who need to understand which general procedure categories are discussed, how adjacent tendon services may be considered, and why the example differs from other heel osteotomy or partial excision scenarios.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate CPT selection for heel and Achilles-region procedures affects claim integrity and can prevent miscoding when multiple operative components are present.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a coding question about a heel procedure
- Which broad operative components are discussed in relation to calcaneal surgery
- How associated tendon work is treated at a high level in the example
- Why the article contrasts different calcaneal procedure categories
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Orthopedic surgery billing staff
- Revenue cycle professionals
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.

Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com