Advanced Search

Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Foreign Body Removal

Published on Thu Jun 01, 2000

Question: What is the code for foreign body removal (e.g., tampon)?

Anne Sweetin
Summit Medical Group, Summit, N.J.

Answer: According to CPT 2000, the example that you give for the removal of a tampon might be coded using 57415 (removal of impacted vaginal foreign body [separate procedure] under anesthesia) if the removal of the impacted vaginal foreign body was performed under anesthesia.

If the removal of an impacted vaginal foreign body was performed without the use of anesthesia, the CPT manual indicates that the appropriate evaluation and management (E/M) code should be used based on the key elements that were performed and documented in the patients medical record. You should use ICD-9 code 939.2 (foreign body in vulva and vagina).
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

Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

View All