Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Your solo dilation coding will get easier come 2011. With no dedicated code for a balloon sinuplasty, you're not alone if you've wondered how to code endoscopic sinus surgery involving the newer tool. You, however, can confidently navigate to the right code or combo code. Focus on whether your otolaryngologist uses a balloon catheter for dilation alone or as part of a functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). Don't overlook what your operative report should include and when you can code for multiple sinus procedures. 1: For Dilation Only, Go With Unlisted Procedure Code To code for a balloon sinuplasty, focus on what the otolaryngologist is using the balloon for. If the balloon is used to dilate the sinuses only, report unlisted code 31299 (Unlisted procedure, accessory sinuses), advises Barbara J. Cobuzzi, MBA, CPC, CPC-H, CPC-P, CENTC, CHCC, president of New Jersey-based CRN Healthcare Solutions. On the other hand, if the [...]