Wiki Hosptialists see PO pt for CR of fracture

[mistyq]

A hospitalists saw a pt who was Post op Day one after Closed reduction of nasal fracture (he did not do the reduction). Would I use V54.19 (aftercare codes) or the fx code since this is the first time he has seen the pt for this fx? He just has under impression - nasal fx and hypertension. He does have pt co of pain around his nose and eyes and a frontal headache in the HPI. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

 

[mitchellde]

You do not use the fx code after it has been treated. The dx is the patient's and this patient has a healing fx so that is code you need.

 

[FTessaBartels]

Who did the reduction?

Who did the reduction? Why is the HOSPITALIST seeing the patient?

The hospitalist shouldn't be providing routine postoperative care ... the provider who bills the fracture care should be doing that.

If the hospitalist is seeing the patient for hypertension that should be clearly reflected in the documentation.

Hope that helps.

F Tessa Bartels, CPC, CEMC