Advanced Search

Orthopedic Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Don't Report Reattachment Without Amputation

Published on Mon Apr 19, 2004

Question: Our surgeon removed a patient's toenail and repaired the patient's partially detached toe, which was almost completely amputated. Which codes should we report for the reattachment?

Missouri Subscriber Answer: CPT includes reattachment codes (20802-20838), but you should only report these if the patient's digit is completely detached (with no vascular attachment). These codes include treatment of the amputated part, but your patient's toe was not actually amputated, so this series would not apply.
 
You should therefore report the appropriate code that describes the structure that the physician repaired (such as the tendon, nerve or fracture).
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

Orthopedic Coding Alert

View All