Wiki Help with ulcer debridement (97597) and TCC application (29445) in same appointment

[klbecker]

I have a physician who has been seeing a patient for a plantar aspect foot ulcer. He has started applying a TCC (total contact cast) after he debrides the ulcer. The patient returns every week to have the TCC removed, the ulcer debrided and another TCC applied. He's coding 97597 and 29445, which are the correct codes for the procedures. I am getting an edit with the 2 codes. Can these be billed together? I've done some research and have come up with conflicting information. Any help or information is GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks
Kristy

 

[thomas7331]

The placement of the cast is inclusive to the debridement procedure and should not be billed if it is performed at the same site. The cast can be billed and unbundled with a modifier if the documentation supports that it was a separate procedure, e.g. if it was on a different body part, or done at a separate encounter from the debridement.