Arthroscopic Biceps Tenotomy

Question:

We are having a debate in our practice on the proper CPT code for an arthroscopic biceps tenotomy.  We have seen some sources state that an arthroscopic bicep tenotomy is considered a debridement and billed under 29822/29823. Others reference CPT 29999 as it seems more like a release and not a debridement. Is there a clear answer on why an arthroscopic bicep tenotomy is considered a debridement and is it correct to be billing 29822 versus 29999?

Answer:

Thank you for your question, coding for an arthroscopic biceps tenotomy has been disputed for many years.  CPT Assistant January 2018 confirms that an arthroscopic biceps tenotomy is coded to the arthroscopic debridement codes, 29822/29823, depending upon how many other distinct structures are debrided. 

Remember if an arthroscopic biceps tenotomy is performed during the same operative session as an arthroscopic or open biceps tenodesis, only the biceps tenodesis would be coded. 

*This response is based on the best information available as of 08/06/26.