READER QUESTIONS:
Verify if 21740 Applies to Sternum Repair
Published on Thu Jun 07, 2007
Question: Our patient had an unstable sternum, so the surgeon repaired it by attaching sternal plates and wires. How should I code this?
Rhode Island Subscriber
Answer: The closest surgical code is 21740 (Reconstructive repair of pectus excavatum or carinatum; open), which crosses to anesthesia code 00474 (Anesthesia for partial rib resection; radical procedures [e.g., pectus excavatum]). If your physician's documentation doesn't support this code, your other option is 01999 (Unlisted anesthesia procedure[s]).
