Wiki Meniscectomy and Removal of Hardware

[Desperate Denise]

Can you bill for a removal of a loose body greater than 5 mm if it is removed from the same compartment as the partial meniscectomy? The physician notes that the loose body was between the medial femoral condyle and the medial tibial plateau.

Thank you

Denise

 

[Jamie Dezenzo]

I follow CCI edits so I would bundle.

 

[jdemar]

I disagree, removal of loose or foreign bodies that are greater than 5mm or through a separate incision are separately reportable. You would also use the 59 modifier. (Size or separate incision must be noted in op note)

Reference material I have is 'Concrete Coding in 2009' sponsored by: Pennsylvania Orthopaedic Society / April 8, 2009

 

[Jamie Dezenzo]

Your are correct for AAOS rules

 

[CrysLednum]

I agree. I don't think this is bundled. I code for the excision when it's been 5mm and/or a separate incision.

 

[Desperate Denise]

Crystal and Jamie

Thanks for all your help!! Much appreciated.