Pulmonology Coding Alert
What Is Thoracentesis and Why Do Pulmonologists Perform It?
Pulmonology coders will be able to report thoracentesis more readily when they have a clear understanding of the differences between the diagnostic and therapeutic nature of the procedure. Pulmonologists may perform thoracentesis for either diagnostic or therapeutic purposes and may include related procedures in addition to E/M services. The two pleurae cover the lungs and chest wall. Usually they touch, helping to reduce friction during breathing. Fluid can get trapped between the visceral pleura (next to the lungs) and parietal pleura (next to the chest wall). When this happens, pulmonary physicians often perform a thoracentesis to help remove the fluid or to diagnosis its source. During a thoracentesis, the pulmonologist inserts a small needle between the patient's ribs into the space between the two pleurae. He or she drains the fluid and usually sends it to a laboratory for cultures and other diagnostic tests. Occasionally, disease, such as cancer, causes fluid to build up, and the patient experiences shortness of breath or coughing. When this happens, the physician performs a therapeutic thoracentesis to get the fluid out, letting the lungs expand and helping the patient get relief.
Pulmonology Coding Alert
- Coding at Ground Zero:
Use CMS and LMRP Guidelines to Avoid PFT Coding Problems
Although carriers regularly reject pulmonary function test (PFT) claims based on medical-necessity problems and Correct [...] - CCI Update:
CMS Targets Injection Codes in Version 8.3
For pulmonologists, the most important revisions in Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) version 8.3 bundle injection [...] - Op Note and Diagnoses Deflate Thoracentesis Coding Challenges
When coding thoracentesis, you should understand the reason for the procedures first, then assign the [...] - You Be the Coder:
Billing the Technical Component
Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the [...] - What Is Thoracentesis and Why Do Pulmonologists Perform It?
Pulmonology coders will be able to report thoracentesis more readily when they have a clear [...] - READER QUESTION:
Emphysema Medication
Question: Which codes should I use for medications the pulmonologist ordered for the treatment of [...] - READER QUESTION:
Critical Care
Question: If a pulmonologist provides a patient in the hospital with critical care for 45 [...] - READER QUESTION:
Documentation Guidelines
Question: My physician bills his E/M services using the 1997 Documentation Guidelines. As a certified [...]
