Wiki Abscess

[tkrol@washingtonfootandankle.com]

Doctor did a surgery and says "abscess left foot to the joint". What other terms should we use to find this code?

 

[fltbaroque]

Here's the description of 10061 per AAPC Coder:

When the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized, the provider makes a circumferential incision over the target area of abscess. He deepens the incision through the vascular inner layer of skin and down to the deep level of abscess cavity. The provider then opens the abscess and excises the inflamed fatty and dead tissues within the cavity and drains the pus completely. When the provider successfully accomplishes the procedure, he may leave this wound open for continuous discharge of fluids and may use woven cotton cloth to soak up fluids and blood. The provider may use a small surgical clamp to break up any loculations within the cavity and may insert gauze or other material to pack the abscess cavity. The provider may repeat this procedure for additional lesions. Some lesions may require placement of a drain for continued drainage. This procedure takes more time than a simple I&D and requires more extensive incisions and/or a more complicated closure.

Is it more involved? I would look for capsulotomy or arthrotomy (which joint?), excision of non-viable tissue, debridement of bone or necrotic tissue.

 

[fwnewbie]

"abscess left foot to the joint" doesn't even give you enough for an ICD code! You need location on foot and which foot at the very least. And a description of what was actually done. Docs know this - they are taught in med school what is required of them. So it should come as no surprise to this provider s/he won't get paid because you can't bill it. Query the doctor.