Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: The surgeon called our anesthesiologist to reverse paralysis on a patient for neurological evaluation (the patient was paralyzed by ER with a muscle relaxant; the anesthesiologist administered drugs for reversal). How should I bill for this?

North Dakota Subscriber

Answer: You really need the case notes to code this accurately. Although the anesthesiologist performed a service, some experts say it's not extensive enough to merit billing. However, the anesthesiologist did need to evaluate the patient, review the medical history and perform a physical to determine whether the "reversal" was indicated and safe. This evaluation would meet the definition of a consult and should be billed as one, if you have appropriate documentation.
 
If you review the record and determine with the anesthesiologist that you should report the reversal, bill it with 01999 (Unlisted anesthesia procedure[s]).