Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: How should I determine the best code for anesthesia during prostate seed placement? There seem to be several viable options, based on the Crosswalk and other coders' experiences.

Illinois Subscriber

Answer: Prostate seed placement is a relatively simple procedure, but it offers several coding options.

Most coding references suggest 00400 (Anesthesia for procedures on the integumentary system on the extremities, anterior trunk and perineum; not otherwise specified) or 00902 (Anesthesia for; anorectal procedure). Code 00400 carries three base units, whereas 00902 has five.

If the surgeon places the seeds through an abdominal incision, report the six-unit code 00860 (Anesthesia for extraperitoneal procedures in lower abdomen, including urinary tract; not otherwise specified) instead because this is a more involved approach. If the surgeon places the seeds while performing a cystoscopy, you can report it with 00910 (Anesthesia for transurethral procedures [including urethrocystoscopy]; not otherwise specified). This is also a three-unit code.

- You Be the Coder and Reader Questions were answered by Lori Mehlbauer, an anesthesia coder in Louisville, Ky.