Advanced Search

General Surgery Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

What's the Code for Laparoscopic Vasectomy?

Published on Sat Jan 01, 2005

Question: Which code should I report for a laparoscopic vasectomy? This was done at the same session with a laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. The surgeon wants to use an unlisted-procedure code for the vasectomy. Is he right?

Wisconsin Subscriber

Answer: Yes. This coding dilemma almost always occurs when a general surgeon performs a laparoscopic hernia repair, and the patient asks for a vasectomy for sterilization at the same sitting. The surgeon may choose to do this laparoscopically because the ports and instrumentation are already in place.
 
There is no CPT code for laparoscopic vasectomy, so you should use an unlisted-procedure code - specifically, 55559 (Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, spermatic cord).
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