Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Clear Up This Cold Forceps Biopsy Scenario

Question: I have a report that says, "Ileum appeared normal. Cold forceps biopsy taken for histology." How should I report this? Can I bill 45380? The ICD-9 codes my gastroenterologists gave are 787.99, 789.07, and 455.0.California SubscriberAnswer: Yes, you can report 45380 (Colonoscopy, flexible, proximal to splenic flexure; with biopsy, single or multiple). Enter the ICD-9 codes in this order: 787.99 (Other symptoms involving digestive system; change in bowel habits), 789.07 (Abdominal pain; generalized), and 455.0 (Internal hemorrhoids without mention of complication).
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

View All