Wiki Removing and replacing PM generator and new pocket

[deeva456]

Hello.

I need a second opinion on a coding scenario. When the physician removes and replaces a PM generator but the new generator is placed in a new pocket, can you also bill for pocket relocation? There are no CCI edit conflicts for this code combination.

33227 Removal of permanent pacemaker pulse generator with replacement of pacemaker pulse generator; single lead system
33222 - Relocation of skin pocket for pacemaker

Thanks for your input!

Dolores CPC CCC

 

[Jim Pawloski]

Hello.

I need a second opinion on a coding scenario. When the physician removes and replaces a PM generator but the new generator is placed in a new pocket, can you also bill for pocket relocation? There are no CCI edit conflicts for this code combination.

33227 Removal of permanent pacemaker pulse generator with replacement of pacemaker pulse generator; single lead system
33222 - Relocation of skin pocket for pacemaker

Thanks for your input!

Dolores CPC CCC

If the pocket revision is to allow the new generator to be implanted, the pocket revision is not billable. But for erosion of the pocket, it can be billed.

HTH,
Jim Pawloski, CIRCC

 

[deeva456]

If the pocket revision is to allow the new generator to be implanted, the pocket revision is not billable. But for erosion of the pocket, it can be billed.

HTH,
Jim Pawloski, CIRCC

The pocket is not being revised but the physician is creating a new pocket for the new generator.

thanks for your input!

Dolores