Wiki Nasal Endoscopy surgical: w/polyps removal

[emagel]

How should I code the following: sinus endoscopy with anterior and posterior total ethmoidectomy with removal of polyps.

I choose 31255. Should I also include 31256 for the polyp removal but a antrostomy was not performed or is the polyp removal included in 31255 since it is a total eithmodectomy?

Your input is appreciated, Edna

 

[mburke81]

I would also code 31255 for the total ethmoidectomy and 31237 for the excision of the polyp.

 

[kbstickler]

I agree with 31255 for ethmoid, total. But if you read the explanation of the surgical procedure 31255 it does say polyps may be excised during this total ethmoidectomy. I think this case depends on the coders interpertation of the op rept and explanation of the surgical procedure. Also too if the patient has a dx of nasal polyps from a previous exam.