Neurosurgery Coding Alert
Which Code Works for Gliadel Wafers?
Ohio Subscriber
Answer: You should call on +61517 (Implantation of brain intracavitary chemotherapy agent [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]).
CPT added 61517 in 2003 to describe placement of the dime-sized disks following excision of a brain tumor. The surgeon implants as many as eight wafers at the site of the excision, where they dissolve over a period of two to three weeks and deliver the chemotherapeutic drug carmustine (BCNU) in high concentrations.
Code 61517 is an add-on code describing implantation of the chemotherapy agent only, and you must report it in addition to either 61510 (Craniectomy, trephination, bone flap craniotomy; for excision of brain tumor, supratentorial, except meningioma) or 61518 (Craniectomy for excision of brain tumor, infratentorial or posterior fossa; except meningioma, cerebellopontine angle tumor, or midline tumor at base of skull) to describe the primary surgical procedure (that is, the tumor excision).
Neurosurgery Coding Alert
- Laminectomy or Hemilaminectomy? Let Documentation Be Your Guide
Make sure you're not confusing spinal segments with interspaces To code correctly for laminectomy and [...] - 'Extended' Laminectomy Calls for Special Coding
You can report laminectomy and laminotomy together, if required If the surgeon extends a bilateral [...] - Here's Your Rx for Inpatient E/M Headaches
4 rules help you select between initial and subsequent visits You can take control of [...] - You Be the Coder:
Which Code Works for Gliadel Wafers?
Question: How can I code for placement of Gliadel Wafers? Is there a dedicated code [...] - 2005 Fee Schedule Update:
Count on Decent Laminoplasty, Reduced Vertebroplasty Fees
Along with a 1.5 percent across-the-board payment increase, the 2005 Physician fee schedule will [...] - Reader Questions:
Time, Documentation Critical to 99291 Payment
Question: In the afternoon, our surgeon saw an auto accident victim with internal head injuries [...] - Reader Questions:
Fight for 61795 Payment if Necessary
Question: I receive constant denials from Medicare for 61795. When I ask which codes are [...] - Reader Questions:
Medicare Won't Recognize 'After-Hours' Codes
Question: Will Medicare pay extra for the surgeon seeing the patient for an unscheduled appointment [...] - Reader Questions:
Turn to Twist Drill/Burr Hole for Monitor Placement
Question: What is the correct code for placement of right frontal Camino intracranial pressure monitor?
Arizona [...]
