Wiki lap converted to open-The standard guidelines

[saphire5]

The standard guidelines state if a procedure is attempted lap and converted to open to code it as an open with the V64.41 dx.
What if my surgeon successfully completes a procedure laparoscopically and when attempting to do procedure # 2 (non related/non bundled) laparoscopically he experiences difficulty forcing him to convert to open. Would if be appropriate to bill for proc #1 with a lap code and proc#2 with an open code? Is it all or nothing and can they be split accordingly?

 

[capricew]

If procedure numer 2 is completely unrelated and diff site with diff diagnosis -- then yes you can code proc 1 as lap and proc 2 as open. Dictation must however support that they are unrelated procedures performed at the same time.