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Official Description

Arthrotomy with biopsy; metatarsophalangeal joint

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 28052 refers to an arthrotomy with biopsy specifically targeting the metatarsophalangeal joint. The metatarsophalangeal joints are critical articulations located at the base of the toes, where the metatarsal bones connect with the proximal phalanges. This procedure involves a surgical opening of the joint capsule to obtain tissue samples for diagnostic purposes. The term 'arthrotomy' indicates that the joint is surgically accessed, allowing for direct visualization and manipulation of the joint structures. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully dissects the surrounding tissues to expose the joint capsule, which is then incised to facilitate the collection of tissue samples. These samples are essential for laboratory analysis to diagnose various conditions affecting the joint. After the biopsy is completed, the incision is meticulously closed in layers to promote optimal healing, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site. It is important to note that this code is specifically used for the metatarsophalangeal joint, distinguishing it from similar procedures performed on other joints, such as the intertarsal or tarsometatarsal joints, which are coded differently.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The arthrotomy with biopsy of the metatarsophalangeal joint, as described by CPT® Code 28052, is indicated for various clinical scenarios where tissue analysis is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Joint Pain Persistent pain in the metatarsophalangeal joint that does not respond to conservative treatment may necessitate a biopsy to determine the underlying cause.
  • Inflammatory Conditions Suspected inflammatory arthropathies, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, may require tissue sampling to confirm diagnosis and assess the extent of joint involvement.
  • Infection If there is a suspicion of infectious processes within the joint, a biopsy can help identify the causative organism and guide appropriate treatment.
  • Neoplastic Processes The presence of tumors or abnormal growths in the joint area may require biopsy for histological examination to determine malignancy or other pathological conditions.

2. Procedure

The procedure for performing an arthrotomy with biopsy of the metatarsophalangeal joint involves several critical steps, each designed to ensure the safe and effective collection of tissue samples. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Anesthesia The procedure begins with the administration of appropriate anesthesia to ensure patient comfort during the surgery. This may involve local anesthesia at the surgical site or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's needs and the surgeon's preference.
  • Step 2: Incision A surgical incision is made over the metatarsophalangeal joint. The exact location and length of the incision depend on the specific joint being accessed and the surgeon's technique.
  • Step 3: Dissection The surrounding soft tissues are carefully dissected to expose the joint capsule. This step requires precision to avoid damaging nearby structures, such as nerves and blood vessels.
  • Step 4: Joint Capsule Exposure Once the joint capsule is adequately exposed, it is incised to allow access to the joint space. This incision is critical for obtaining tissue samples.
  • Step 5: Tissue Sampling Tissue samples are collected from the joint for laboratory analysis. These samples are crucial for diagnosing various conditions affecting the joint.
  • Step 6: Closure After the biopsy is completed, the joint capsule is closed, and the incision is sutured in layers to promote proper healing. The closure technique may vary based on the surgeon's preference and the specific circumstances of the procedure.
  • Step 7: Dressing Application A sterile dressing is applied to the surgical site to protect it from infection and facilitate healing.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the arthrotomy with biopsy of the metatarsophalangeal joint, patients can expect specific post-procedure care and recovery considerations. It is essential to monitor the surgical site for any signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge. Patients are typically advised to keep the area clean and dry, following the surgeon's instructions regarding dressing changes. Pain management may be necessary, and the use of prescribed analgesics can help alleviate discomfort. Weight-bearing activities may be restricted for a period to allow for proper healing of the joint. Follow-up appointments are crucial to assess the healing process and discuss the results of the biopsy. The healthcare provider will provide guidance on resuming normal activities based on the patient's recovery progress.

Short Descr BIOPSY OF FOOT JOINT LINING
Medium Descr ARTHRTOMY W/BX METATARSOPHALANGEAL JOINT
Long Descr Arthrotomy with biopsy; metatarsophalangeal joint
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 1 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures applies.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P3D - Major procedure, orthopedic - other
MUE 2
CCS Clinical Classification 159 - Other diagnostic procedures on musculoskeletal system
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
78 Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.)
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
T1 Left foot, second digit
T2 Left foot, third digit
T5 Right foot, great toe
T6 Right foot, second digit
T7 Right foot, third digit
TA Left foot, great toe
XS Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure
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