Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Question: Would you use 31535 to code a direct operative laryngoscopy with multiple biopsies? What modifier should I use? Modifier 76? Tennessee Subscriber Answer: Yes, but you should report this code for each biopsy. In other words, you should add modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service) to 31535 (Laryngoscopy, direct, operative, with biopsy) to indicate a separate location. For instance, if the physician did three biopsies, you would report 31535, 31535-59, and 31535-59. Don't miss: Always send the codes with operative and pathology reports so you can avoid having to appeal Medicare or your private payers. Remember that modifier 59 documentation "must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual," according to CPT. Beware: Never use modifier 76 (Repeat procedure or [...]