Urology Coding Alert
Report Gold Seed Marker Placements with A4648
Question: The urologist completed a transrectal ultrasound, ultrasound for guidance, and placement of marker seeds in the office. How do I report the gold seed marker placement? Arkansas Subscriber Answer: Begin by reporting 55876 (Placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance (eg, fiducial markers, dosimeter), prostate (via needle, any approach), single or multiple) for the actual marker seed placement. For the radiological portion of the procedure, code 76872 (Ultrasound, transrectal) for the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and 76942 (Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement (eg, biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device), imaging supervision and interpretation) for the ultrasonic guidance. Don’t miss: Since your urologist is performing this procedure in the office, you are likely using your own supply of gold marker seeds. Therefore, you should also report A4648 (Tissue marker, implantable, any type, each) to recoup the cost of the seeds. Note that the descriptor specifies “each,” so submit A4648 for each seed your physician places. Also, the payer may require a copy of your paid invoice for the marker seeds.
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