29898 Ankle arthroscopy Medicare reimbursement rates in Alaska

An orthopedic surgeon uses an arthroscope and instruments through small incisions to remove or smooth abnormal tissue inside the ankle joint. The work may address extensive synovial tissue, scar tissue, or damaged cartilage, including tissue contributing to impingement or restricted motion. This procedure is commonly performed in an operating room for symptomatic ankle-joint disease or injury when arthroscopic treatment is appropriate.

Select this code when the operative report supports extensive debridement; limited cleanup is reported with the limited-debridement code instead. Document the structures treated and the extent of work, not merely that debridement occurred. Medicare assigns a 90-day global period, including the day-before preoperative visit and related postoperative care. When multiple procedures are performed in the same session, the highest-valued procedure is paid in full and others at 50%. Bilateral reporting with modifier 50 is paid at 150%. Assistant-at-surgery payment may be made; co-surgeon payment requires supporting documentation, and team surgery is not permitted.