Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: The pathologist performed an exam of a testicle removed for testicular torsion. What are the correct diagnosis and procedure codes?

Codify Subscriber

Answer: For the pathology exam, report 88305 (Level IV - Surgical pathology, gross and microscopic examination… Testis, other than tumor/biopsy/castration…).

The most appropriate diagnosis code depends on the details provided in the op report. Without further information, you should code N44.00 (Torsion of testis, unspecified).

If the surgeon gives more detail, you might more accurately report one of the following codes:

• N44.01 (Extravaginal torsion of spermatic cord)
• N44.02 (Intravaginal torsion of spermatic cord)
• N44.03 (Torsion of appendix testis)
• N44.04 (Torsion of appendix epididymis).