Wiki Most extensive procedure-mult polyps

[SUEV]

Multiple colonoscopy codes can be billed when different techniques are used on multiple polyps. Let's say a provider finds 4 polyps. He fulgurates 2 of them. The other 2 he removes mostly with a snare but then has to fulgurate the rest of the polyp to destroy it entirely. Can I only code for 45383 since it was the most extensive procedure done on all 4 polyps or can I code 45383 for the first 2 and 45385-59 for the others? Thanks for any help!
Sue

 

[EricaR]

This depends on the locations of the polyps. You can only bill polypectomies seperate if the are 1. in seperate locations and 2. if a different tool was used. So if there was a polyp in the ascending that was snared then fulgrated and then a polyp in the sigmoid that was only fulgrated you could bill:
45383 and 45385-59. Hope that helped!

Erica

 

[SUEV]

Biosy and then Destructions?

Hi Erica,
If the provider fulgurates 4 polyps but biopsies 2 of them first with a different tool, you would bill 45383 and 45380-59 even though biopsies are included with definitive treatments? I just want to make sure I understand so that I'm capturing all possible charges while still following coding guidelines of course
Thanks for your help,
Sue

 

[EricaR]

Hi Sue,

Yes if they were not in the same locations I would bill both procedure codes. When you say included in definitive treatments are you referring to future treatments or in the same procedure?

Erica