Orthopedic Coding Alert
Synovectomy
Tennessee Subscriber
Answer: The codes for a synovectomy are 25105 (arthrotomy, wrist joint; with synovectomy), 25115 (radical excision of bursa, synovia of wrist, or forearm tendon sheaths; flexor), 25116 (radical excision of bursa, synovia of wrist, or forearm tendon sheaths; extensors) or 25118 (synovectomy, extensor tendon sheath, wrist, single compartment). But, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) Complete Global Service Data Guide says all of these codes are included in the global charge for 25111 (excision of ganglion, wrist [dorsal or volar]; primary). In this case, you cannot bill separately for the synovectomy.
Orthopedic Coding Alert
- Avoid Multiple Headaches When Coding Multiple Arthroscopic Shoulder Procedures
Orthopedic coders consistently cite coding for multiple arthroscopic shoulder procedures as a source of frustration. [...] - HCFA Adds New Codes for Casting Supplies
Obtaining reimbursement for cast and splint supplies has always been a challenge in orthopedics, but [...] - You Be the Coder:
Arthroplasty
Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the [...] - CCI Changes to Orthopedics are Extensive but not Major
The Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) version 7.2, which went into effect on July 1, 2001, [...] - News Brief:
HCFA Changes Name to CMS
The Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), which administers Medicare and Medicaid policy, has been renamed [...] - Reader Question:
Assistant Surgeon
Question: We often use orthopedic residents from an area program, but when they arent available [...] - Reader Question:
Pin Removal With Scar Revision
Question: My doctor performed a removal of pins in the right hip with scar revision. [...] - Reader Question:
History and Physical by PA
Question: Can I charge for a history and physical (H&P) done by our physicians assistant [...] - Reader Question:
E Codes
Question: What are E codes, and should I be using them?
Nevada Subscriber
Answer: The "E" [...] - Reader Question:
Bone Graft
Question: My physician opened and prepared a graft site but then switched to synthetic bone [...] - Reader Question:
Operative Report Alteration
Question: If my physician fails to mention a procedure in his operative report, can he [...] - Reader Question:
Multiple Injections
Question: Im trying to bill 20550 for injections of multiple sites as separate line items [...] - Reader Question:
Synovectomy
Question: Our doctor performed an excision of a ganglion cyst (25111) and a synovectomy. How [...] - Reader Question:
Debridement
Question: Can I bill for debridement (11010) when billing for 25575? Insurance companies keep denying [...]
