Orthopedic Coding Alert
Arthroscopic Wrist Excision
Question: Should I use 29846 (Arthroscopy, wrist, surgical; excision and/or repair of triangular fibrocarti-lage and/or joint debridement) for the arthroscopic excision of a ganglion, dorsal left wrist? We couldn't find a specific code in CPT that addresses this type of surgery. New Jersey Subscriber Answer: No, 29846 is not appropriate for this type of procedure. You should use 29999 (Unlisted procedure, arthroscopy) instead.
answer.
Many practices are hesitant to report the unlisted-procedure code because it often slows claim processing, but in your situation, this is your best bet. It isn't correct coding to choose a code "close" to the procedure performed. If no accurate code exists, always go with the unlisted-procedure code.
Orthopedic Coding Alert
- Shoulder Surgery Primer:
Code Off the Cuff for RTC Repairs and SAD
" You may be tempted to report an unlisted-procedure code when orthopedic surgeons perform arthroscopic [...] - Know When to Fight for Fluoro Reimbursement
Although many coders argue that fluoroscopy should never be billed separately from injection procedures, there [...] - You Be the Coder:
Arthroscopic Wrist Excision
Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the [...] - Modifier of the Month:
Modifiers -80 and -82 Aid Assistant Surgeon Claims
Orthopedic surgeons from the same practice often serve as one another's assistant surgeons, but this [...] - CMS Announces New Aftercare V Codes
On June 20, CMS announced the ICD-9 code changes for 2003. The revisions most relevant [...] - New 2003 ICD-9 Codes
Although Medicare will accept these codes beginning Oct. 1, carriers must still process claims using [...] - Reader Question:
Two Levels of Epidural
Question: Can we bill 62311 (Injection, single [not via indwelling catheter], not including neurolytic substances, [...] - Reader Question:
Scoliosis Exams
Question: Our orthopedists often see children for scoliosis screenings. The doctor writes "normal exam" for [...] - Correction
The August 2002 Orthopedic Coding Alert featured a "Modifier of the Month" article regarding modifiers [...] - Reader Question:
Pin Removal
Question: Can I charge for pin removal in the office following closed reduction and percutaneous [...] - Reader Question:
Exercise Instruction
Question: What code should I use when the orthopedist teaches the patient exercises for her [...]
