Pathology/Lab Coding Alert

Question: A LEEP (loop electrocautery excision procedure) is not just a colposcopic biopsy; rather it is a form of conization. How should we code it? In addition, how should be code a LEEP plus an ECC (endocervical curettage)?

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Answer: A LEEP is a conization of the cervix using a loop electrode as opposed to a cold knife or laser. The name conization means that the tissue excised is a cone-like shape. Code 88307 (level V, surgical pathology, gross and microscopic examination; cervix, conization) usually is appropriate for the larger, cone-shaped specimen removed by this procedure. If an endocervical curettage tissue specimen also were submitted for examination, it would receive an additional code of 88305 (level IV, surgical pathology, gross and microscopic examination; cervix, biopsy).

Editors note: Susan Callaway-Stradley, CPC, CSS-P, an independent coding consultant and educator in North Augusta, S.C.; and Laurie Castillo, MA, CPC, president of the American Association of Professional Coders Northern Virginia Chapter and owner of Physician Coding & Compliance Consulting in Manassas, Va., provided advice to answer these questions.