I have an on going debate with coding a THR/Conversion/Revision. Here is my questions.
A patient had a THR (27130), lets say 1 year ago.
This total hip became infected and the patient was taken to the OR to have the hip prothesis removed and an antiobiotic spacer put in. (27130)
The infection clears and 3 month later is returned to the OR for the spacer removal and THR. (27130. 11982)
Here is my question;
The physician wants me to code a Revision (27134), which I believe is only coded when the prosthesis is removed and replace in the same day.
or
A conversion (27132) because he is stating he is removing a spacer, which is a previous hip surgery for a total hip. This too I believe is incorrect because the guidelines that I read for this code is there can not be previous THR. According to what I have from the AMA is a surgery resulting from scarring, deformity and altered surgical field, makeing the procedure more difficult with potentially higher complication rates. Am I understanding correctly that this does NOT cover a previous THR?
Any guidance with this would be greatful. Any references would also be appreciated.
Thank you,
Kim
A patient had a THR (27130), lets say 1 year ago.
This total hip became infected and the patient was taken to the OR to have the hip prothesis removed and an antiobiotic spacer put in. (27130)
The infection clears and 3 month later is returned to the OR for the spacer removal and THR. (27130. 11982)
Here is my question;
The physician wants me to code a Revision (27134), which I believe is only coded when the prosthesis is removed and replace in the same day.
or
A conversion (27132) because he is stating he is removing a spacer, which is a previous hip surgery for a total hip. This too I believe is incorrect because the guidelines that I read for this code is there can not be previous THR. According to what I have from the AMA is a surgery resulting from scarring, deformity and altered surgical field, makeing the procedure more difficult with potentially higher complication rates. Am I understanding correctly that this does NOT cover a previous THR?
Any guidance with this would be greatful. Any references would also be appreciated.
Thank you,
Kim