cmk112@gmail.com
New
Hi, Can someone tell me which would be the appropriate code for revision of internal fixation. The provider states the correct code is hardware removal 20680, but after reading the note, no hardware was removed. The 2 screws were just tighten back to the plate. I could understand if we replaced the screws... I am looking for a second opinion on code selection.
"Attention was directed to prominent area where screw was backing out. Utilizing the inoperative fluoroscopy, two screws that were backing out, were identified and marked on the skin.....Next, stab incisions was created over the capsule and screw head was noted on both sites of stab incisions. Next, using the appropriate screwdriver from the Medline, screw was identified as screw back in to the plate until it was locked on the plate...Inoperative fluropscopy was used to identify that screw was adequately locked into plate...."
I don't feel that 20680 is correct due to nothing was removed but rather screws were just tightened. Any code suggestions or insight would be greatly appreciated.
"Attention was directed to prominent area where screw was backing out. Utilizing the inoperative fluoroscopy, two screws that were backing out, were identified and marked on the skin.....Next, stab incisions was created over the capsule and screw head was noted on both sites of stab incisions. Next, using the appropriate screwdriver from the Medline, screw was identified as screw back in to the plate until it was locked on the plate...Inoperative fluropscopy was used to identify that screw was adequately locked into plate...."
I don't feel that 20680 is correct due to nothing was removed but rather screws were just tightened. Any code suggestions or insight would be greatly appreciated.