You Be the Coder:
Learn Crosswalks for Endoscopy Procedures
Published on Thu Aug 20, 2009
Question: Our group is looking to expand and start doing anesthesia for general and/or MAC anesthesia for colonoscopy, laparoscopic gallbladder, and EGD (Esophago-gastro duodenoscopy). What are the correct codes for these? Florida Subscriber Answer: The codes you'll need are: • Colonoscopy: 00810 (Anesthesia for lower intestinal endoscopic procedures, endoscope introduced distal to duodenum) • Laparoscopy: 00790 (Anesthesia for intraperitoneal procedures in upper abdomen including laparoscopy; not otherwise specified) • EGD: 00740 (Anesthesia for upper gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures, endoscope introduced proximal to duodenum). Many carriers have special policies regarding reimbursement for anesthesia during endoscopy. Check with your local carriers to ensure your documentation supports what the insurer requires.