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Tip: Correctly code synovitis

Ambulatory Surgery Reimbursement Update, April 15, 2008

Synovitis involves the inflammation of the synovial lining that keeps foreign matter out of joints and produces joint fluid for lubrication of joints such as the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, or ankle.

Code the usual type of synovitis conditions, for which orthopedic procedures are commonly performed (synovectomy procedures or plica resections) with code 727.00 (synovitis or tenosynovitis). If the synovitis condition occurs in the hand or wrist area, use code 727.05. If the synovitis condition occurs in the foot or ankle regions, use code 727.06.

Do not confuse or code villonodular synovitis for most synovitis conditions. It is another condition with pigmenting of the tissue and swelling of the joint lining, retaining fluid, which is quite rare. Code villonodular synovitis from the 719.2X section of the CPT Manual, and only do so when the operative report or pathology report specifically states the patient has the villonodular synovitis condition.

This tip is brought to you by Ellis Medical Consulting, Inc.

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