Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: How do I code for anesthesia during a procedure that was diagnosed as left eustachian tube lesion followed by endoscopic resection of the lesion? Our commercial carrier accepts surgical codes for anesthesia.

Hawaii Subscriber

Answer: Lesion of eustachian tube and/or endoscopic resection of eustachian tube lesion are not yet in the CPT; there isnt even an unlisted endoscopic procedure code. Code 69799 (unlisted procedure, middle ear) is the only choice for either procedure. Because you are looking for a CPT code for anesthesia, you would only need to reference this one code. To calculate the fee, use the 00120 base units of five and add your time and, of course, any physical status modifiers. Also send a copy of the operative report with the claim to document your reason for choosing that code.