Version 12.2 Update:
Urology Coding Escapes Major NCCI Overhaul
Published on Sat Jul 01, 2006
You don’t have to worry about learning a whole list of new National Correct Coding Initiative bundles this quarter. Only one bundle of note will affect urology coders in NCCI Edits version 12.2.
CPT Code 76872 (Ultrasound, transrectal) is now bundled into 55873 (Cryosurgical ablation of the prostate [includes ultrasonic guidance for interstitial cryosurgical probe placement]). It would be unusual for a urologist to perform a transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) of the prostate gland on the same day he performs the cryosurgery, so this edit makes sense to coding experts.
Note: You can override this edit under specific circumstances by appending a modifier, such as modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service).