Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Question: Our ob-gyn repaired a vaginal laceration for a patient who is two weeks postpartum and came in bleeding profusely. I am using unlisted-procedure code 59899. Is this correct?

Ohio Subscriber

Answer: The only code you can use is 59899 (Unlisted procedure, maternity care and delivery). You cannot use another code, because this was not a non-ob injury to the vagina. Skin repair codes do not apply, because it was a laceration to the vaginal canal -- not the perineum or vulvar area.
 
Note: You should offer a detailed description of the procedure the ob-gyn performed. Don't forget documentation of medical necessity to back up the decision to perform the procedure, as well as the time, effort, and equipment the ob-gyn used.