OCD_coder
True Blue
You are correct. Modifier 59 should not be used to bypass any edit, ever. If the procedures are performed at the same surgical session at the same anatomical site that means the code in column B is inclusive to the code listed in column A.
So they must be performed on contralateral sides to apply a modifier 59. Or, in a very rare instance, if the patient had to go back into the OR to perform the 2nd procedure that would be an indication to use the modifier.
So they must be performed on contralateral sides to apply a modifier 59. Or, in a very rare instance, if the patient had to go back into the OR to perform the 2nd procedure that would be an indication to use the modifier.