General Surgery Coding Alert

Distinct lap cholecystectomy could add $348 to your claim. When your close reading of the op report uncovers a second laparoscopic surgical procedure, you have a lot to gain. Let our experts help you focus on the ins and outs of multiple scope coding to capture all the pay you deserve. Itemize Multiple Laparoscopies If your general surgeon performs multiple surgical laparoscopic procedures during the same operative session, you can report each service separately, in many circumstances. Whether the surgeon plans multiple procedures or performs additional lap services based on findings during surgery does not impact your code selection. Incision not critical: Contrary to some coders' understanding, "you don't have to have a separate incision to warrant coding a separate laparoscopic surgical procedure," notes Marcella Bucknam, CPC, CCS-P, CPC-H, CCS, CPC-P, COBGC, CCC, manager of compliance education for the University of Washington Physicians Compliance Program. "In fact, a surgeon rarely [...]