Urology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Reporting Stents with Ureteroscopy

Question: Should we bill CPT 52352 and CPT 52332 together? We have been receiving denials lately.

Florida Subscriber  
Answer: Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) version 8.0 does not bundle stent code 52332 into ureteroscopic codes. Modifier -59 (Distinct procedural service) is no longer needed with the stent code. Modifier -51 (Multiple procedures) should be appended, and both codes paid. If Medicare continues to bundle these codes, use modifier -59 and track for payment. For commercial carriers, appeal the denial and send a copy of the CCI showing the absence of any bundling between 52352 and 52332.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more