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Pulmonology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Chest Tube Removal

Published on Mon Dec 31, 2012

Question: Is there a payable code for removal of a chest tube?

New Hampshire Subscriber

Answer: If the chest-tube removal falls within the global period of a surgery (90 days) performed by the same physician, and does not require a return to the operating room, it is included in the surgical fee. If it does not fall within a global period and requires an incision, an unlisted procedure code (39499 unlisted procedure, mediastinum) should be reported. Documentation should be submitted with the code detailing what was performed. If the removal is non-incision, this service is included in the E/M codes reported by the physician for that day.
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