Advanced Search

General Surgery Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Cholangiogram Isn't Separate With Exploration

Published on Tue Sep 16, 2008

Question: If the surgeon performs both cholangiography and exploration of the common bile duct (to locate and remove gallstone), may I report both 47610 and 47605? West Virginia Subscriber Answer: No. In this case, you should report only 47610 (Cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct). Here's why: The national Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) bundles cholangiography, 47605 (Cholecystectomy; with cholangiography), to exploration 47610 and likewise bundles 47563 (Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with cholangiography) into 47564 (Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct) for a laparoscopic approach. Both edits include a "0" modifier indicator, meaning that you may never override them. In other words: Payers will always include the work involved in cholangiography in exploration of the common ducts.
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 your eNewsletter
  • 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
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

General Surgery Coding Alert

View All