Otolaryngology Coding Alert
Check for Scope Before Coding Tongue Biopsy
Question: Should I use 42800 or 42802 for the following procedure: Answer: Actually, because the biopsy is performed using a laryngoscope, you should report the mass removal or biopsy from the base of the tongue with 31535 Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with biopsy).
The mass was just in front of the epiglottis to the left of the midline. The mass was removed using a laryngoscope and upbiting cup forceps. The biopsy confirmed a mucocele. Two additional biopsies were taken of the thickened tissue noted on the MRI.
Kentucky Subscriber
Codes 42800 (Biopsy; oropharynx) and 42802 (- hypopharynx) describe biopsy without use of a scope. The parenthetical instruction following the family of biopsy codes (42800-42806) says, -For laryngoscopic biopsy, see 31510, 31535, 31536.-
Answers to You Be the Coder and Reader Questions reviewed by Barbara J. Cobuzzi, MBA, CPC, CPC-H, CPC-P, CHCC, president of CRN Healthcare Solutions, a coding and reimbursement consulting firm in Tinton Falls, N.J.
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Check for Scope Before Coding Tongue Biopsy
Question: Should I use 42800 or 42802 for the following procedure:
The mass was just in [...]
