Welcome to the official MedicoExam syllabus guide for the AAPC Certified Orthopaedic Surgery Coder certification. This page delivers a clear, structured overview of the AAPC COSC exam, including key exam details, syllabus topics, and preparation references to support effective study planning. The AAPC Certified Orthopaedic Surgery Coder (COSC) is intended for professionals pursuing roles aligned with Specialty Coding + Medical coding, with assessment centered on applied competencies such as orthopaedic surgery CPT coding, ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding, HCPCS Level II and modifier application within real-world settings like orthopaedic practices, surgical coding departments, physician billing and revenue cycle settings.
The syllabus outline below reflects the core domains and expectations defined by the official AAPC certification framework and aligns with the cognitive and professional standards assessed in the AAPC COSC exam. Candidates can use this guide alongside official vendor resources and structured practice to align their preparation with current exam standards and professional expectations for orthopaedic surgery coder, specialty medical coder, surgical coding professional and related roles
AAPC COSC Exam Summary and Key Details
| Exam Name | AAPC Certified Orthopaedic Surgery Coder |
| Credential | AAPC Certified Orthopaedic Surgery Coder (COSC) |
| Vendor | American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) |
| Exam Code | COSC » AAPC COSC Certification Practice Exam |
| Exam Delivery Mode | Online at home with a live remote proctor or computer-based testing at a testing center |
| Exam Duration | 240 mins |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Exam Price |
$325 for one attempt $399 for two exam attempts |
| Scheduling Window | Schedule after voucher purchase according to Meazure Learning appointment availability |
| Schedule Exam | AAPC |
| Trainings/Resources | Certified Orthopaedic Surgery Coder (COSC) Online Training Course |
| Sample Questions | AAPC COSC Exam Sample Questions |
| Recommended Practice | AAPC COSC Certification Practice Exam |
AAPC COSC Exam Syllabus Topics and Weighting
| Topic Areas | Topic Details, Courses, Books |
|---|---|
| Core knowledge areas |
- ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding for musculoskeletal injuries, deformities, degenerative diseases, and traumatic conditions - E/M coding for orthopaedic consultations, fracture care, and post-operative management - Application of modifiers and payer-specific rules related to orthopaedic surgery |
| Surgical coding of upper and lower extremities |
- Procedures involving the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle, and foot - Coding for fracture repairs, dislocations, and reconstructive surgeries - Arthroscopic and open surgical procedures of the extremities |
| Spine and joint procedures |
- Coding for spinal surgeries, including decompressions, fusions, and disc procedures - Total joint replacements, revisions, and partial replacements - Arthroscopy, injections, and surgical interventions for chronic joint conditions |
| Casting, splinting, and other orthopaedic services |
- Application and removal of casts, splints, and strapping - Injections and aspirations for joints, tendons, and bursae - Coding for orthopaedic imaging, diagnostic testing, and ancillary services |
The AAPC COSC certification exam is designed to assess both theoretical knowledge and applied professional judgment in Specialty Coding + Medical coding. The exam evaluates competencies such as orthopaedic surgery CPT coding, ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding, HCPCS Level II and modifier application, ensuring candidates are prepared for real-world responsibilities as orthopaedic surgery coder, specialty medical coder, surgical coding professional and related roles working in settings such as orthopaedic practices, surgical coding departments, physician billing and revenue cycle settings.
To prepare effectively for the AAPC Certified Orthopaedic Surgery Coder exam, candidates are encouraged to review official vendor materials, complete structured practice assessments, and gain hands-on experience relevant to their professional role.
