Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Question: Our ob-gyn tried to insert an intrauterine device (IUD) but was unable to dilate the patient's cervix. Should I use modifier 53 for the attempted insertion?

Arkansas Subscriber

Answer: No, you should use modifier 52 (Reduced services) for the service.

You should only use modifier 53 (Discontinued service) in situations when the patient has undergone anesthesia induction and a surgical prep, but the ob-gyn cannot carry out the procedure because the patient developed a problem. This problem would not be cervical stenosis or even patient discomfort but conditions like a sudden drop or increase in blood pressure, fainting, heart palpations, etc.