Otolaryngology Coding Alert

Question: I am uncertain about when I should use modifier 51. Do some carriers no longer accept it?

Wisconsin Subscriber

Answer: Including modifier 51 (Multiple procedures) on certain claims may not be necessary for all insurers. Many carriers no longer require modifier 51. Processing claims electronically allows the carrier to recognize when your physician performs multiple procedures and automatically make the necessary payment reduction. You should list the highest-paying procedure code first.

Tip: Make a pre-emptive strike against denials by contacting your insurance carrier or Medicare Administrative Contractors (MAC) and asking the representative which method the insurer would prefer when reporting multiple surgical procedures. Then, make a note of each payer's policy on coding multiple procedures so you can reference it quickly the next time a modifier 51 issue arises.

Rule of thumb: Modifier 51 is an informational-type modifier for use on the second, third, etc., surgical procedure performed on the same day as another procedure that you are reporting and seeking payment for.

Example: Suppose your otolaryngologist performs a septoplasty, submucous resection of inferior turbinates, and open reduction and internal fixation of nasal fracture. The surgeon states that he performed septoplasty for the cartilage. The nasal fracture reduction and fixation treated the severe deformity and the inability to breathe. In this instance, you should report the following:

1. 21330 (Open treatment of nasal fracture; complicated, with internal and/or external skeletal fixation)

2. modifier 51 appended to 30140 (Submucous resection inferior turbinate, partial or complete, any method) to show that the procedures were separate -- if the insurer requires the modifier.

The modifier shows the carrier that the physician performed both procedures in the same session. You can expect half the normal reimbursement for codes with modifier 51 attached. Also, check Appendix E of the CPT manual for a summary of codes that are modifier 51-exempt.