Orthopedic Coding Alert

Don't know what services a CPT code includes? You could be making bundling errors -- and overcharging. If you've ever found yourself thumbing through the pages of your CPT book trying to decipher what codes to include when a hand surgery op note lands on your desk, there's hope. The task can be easier than you think, provided you follow this 3-step strategy. Your payers will hand over the ethical reimbursement your orthopedist deserves -- the first time around. Step 1: Read Your Orthopedist's Note Although you may be used to coding an interposition arthroplasty with suspensionplasty,the following "unusual surgery" note lands on your desk. It says: Diagnosis: Degenerative arthritic changes at base of carpal metacarpal joint with dislocation. (This is often called the trapezoimetalcarpel joint or even the basilar thumb joint, says Bill Mallon, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director at Triangle Orthopaedic Associates in Durham, N.C.) Operation: Resection arthroplasty with [...]