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Pulmonology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Avoid Use of Multiple Units of 31633 For Multiple Biopsies

Published on Wed Aug 22, 2012

Question: Our doctor has just started doing bronchoscopy with EBUS. I want to make sure I am coding the procedures correctly. Operative Report: lymph nodes of station 2R, 7, and 10R were identified. Transbronchial needle aspirate with EBUS was collected from each. Conventional scope was reintroduced and brush samplings and forceps biopsies were collected.I coded this 31629, 31620, 31633 x 2, 31623, and 31625. Is this correct?South Florida SubscriberAnswer: You are correct in choosing the codes for the procedures that your pulmonologist performed in the session. So here is a list of the codes that you will have to report:31629 -- Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with transbronchial needle aspiration biopsy(s), trachea, main stem and/or lobar bronchus[i] +31620 -- Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) during bronchoscopic diagnostic or therapeutic intervention(s) (list separately in addition to code for primary procedure[s])31623 -- Bronchoscopy, rigid or flexible, including fluoroscopic guidance, when performed; with brushing [...]
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