Orthopedic Coding Alert

Hint: Compartment and debridement dictate the right code.When treating compartment syndrome in the forearm, your surgeon's work may include longitudinal exposures and incising the fascia to perform a fasciotomy, during which the surgeon inspects the muscle and nerve and excises any necrotic tissue. Applying the right codes depends on accurately retracing these procedure steps. Use the advice that follows to select the right compartment syndrome codes and never miss your deserved payment.1. Confirm the CompartmentThe orthopedic surgeon may work in the flexor, extensor, or both compartments. You will need to carefully read the operative note to know which incisions were used. These will help you to know which compartments were approached for the fasciotomies. "If your surgeon mentions specific tendons, you can look for the anatomy and function of each one to know if your surgeon worked in the flexor or extensor compartment," says Denise Paige, CPC, COSC, orthopedic coder, [...]