Urology Coding Alert

Just because the operative notes mention 'laser' don't assume 52647-52649. Many urologists are starting to use lasers, such as the Holmium laser, for a variety of prostate surgeries. But if you don't know how to dig into the operative report for the procedure details, your coding -- and ultimately, your reimbursement -- will suffer. Skimming the report, seeing the word "Holmium" and automatically assigning the code is a recipe for disaster. Follow this expert guidance to ensure you know the laser procedure coding pitfalls and which code applies for each laser prostate treatment. Pay Attention to Technique, Not Laser Type Knowing that your urologist performed a prostate procedure typically leads you to three procedure codes: 52647 -- Laser coagulation of prostate, including control of postoperative bleeding, complete (vasectomy, meatotomy, cystourethroscopy, urethral calibration and/or dilation, and internal urethrotomy are included if performed) 52648 -- Laser vaporization of prostate, including control of postoperative bleeding, complete (vasectomy, [...]