Wiki Shoulder/knee procedures at the same time; two blocks placed

[susiemc]

Rotator cuff repair & knee arthroscopies done at the same interval with the anesthesiologist placing shoulder and knee blocks; only the rotator cuff repair will be coded along with the shoulder block; the knee scope won't be billed, but can the knee block be billed since it was placed?

 

[danachock]

Two Nerve Blocks placed

Yes, do not be afraid to bill both. But be ready to appeal. I have billed multiple times where two different areas that nerve blocks were administered for post operative pain management. We are allowed to bill the procedure with the most base value units, nerve blocks should be still billed and separately payable. Make sure that your documentation supports it. Also if US guidance is used and you have photos on hand for the appeal that is super helpful. Remember to appeal with the ANA record, the US Guidance photos (if used) and the operative report(s).
Hoping this helps,
Dana Chock, CPC, CCA, CANPC, CHONC, CPMA, CPB
Anesthesia, Pathology, & Laboratory Coder