Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Question: How do I code for an amnio reduction procedure?

Oregon Subscriber

Answer: If the procedure in question is the reduction of amniotic fluid, bill the procedure as an amniocentesis (59000, amniocentesis, any method) because it is the code that most closely describes the procedure.

Sometimes with twins, amniotic fluid from one sac is transferred to the other sac. This procedure is also best coded as an amniocentesis, but you may have cause to add modifier -22 (unusual procedural services) if twins are involved. If the procedure is done under ultrasound guidance, code that separately using 76946 (ultrasonic guidance for amniocentesis, imaging supervision and interpretation).