Neurosurgery Coding Alert
Go With the Flow to Make Modifier 59 Decisions Easy
Published on Thu Aug 09, 2007
If you-re looking for an easy way to determine if you should append modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service) to your claim, just follow this flow chart 
Other Articles in this issue of
Neurosurgery Coding Alert
- Follow 6 Easy Steps to Distinguish Kyphoplasty From Vertebroplasty
Crossing spinal regions calls for a single -primary- code
If you can't tell percutaneous vertebroplasty (vertebroplasty) [...] - Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty Codes
Vertebroplasty codes cover thoracic, lumbar and each additional thoracic or lumbar vertebral body, as indicated [...] - Bonus Tip:
Vertebro/Kypho Plasty Include Bone Biopsy
When reporting 22520-22522 or 22523-22525, you won't code separately for bone biopsy (20225, Biopsy, bone, [...] - Modifier 59 Made Easy:
Look for a Separate Location/Session
Be sure to check CCI for a -1- modifier indicator
Properly applying modifier 59 (Distinct [...] - You Be the Coder:
What Accompanies 61795?
Question: I receive frequent denials from our Medicare payer when reporting 61795. When I enquire [...] - Go With the Flow to Make Modifier 59 Decisions Easy
If you-re looking for an easy way to determine if you should append modifier 59 [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Count Fusions, Not Vertebrae
Question: If the surgeon fuses vertebrae L2 through L4, should I report 22612/22614, or 22612/22614 [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Locum Tenens Solutions in 3 Steps
Question: One of our physicians will be out of the office for an extended period, [...] - READER QUESTIONS:
Cranial Graft Holds Multiple-Code Opportunities
Question: Our surgeon treated a patient for evacuation of an intracranial hematoma. To minimize the [...]
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