Orthopedic Coding Alert
Answer Manipulation Question Before Coding This Dislocation Tx
Question: Encounter notes indicate that the provider performed treatment of a sternoclavicular dislocation. They also performed a three-view sternoclavicular joint X-ray. How should I report this encounter? Iowa Subscriber Answer: It depends on which type of treatment the surgeon performed for the sternoclavicular fracture. Do this: Go back and check the encounter notes again — or ask the provider, if possible — whether they used manipulation. Then, choose one of these codes for the dislocation fix: X-ray: Whichever code you choose for the dislocation repair, report 71130 (Radiologic examination; sternoclavicular joint or joints, minimum of 3 views) for the X-ray. Append modifier 26 (Professional component) if your practice doesn’t own the X-ray equipment.
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