Wiki Unsuccessful removal of impacted cerumen

[Frodo94]

Patient came into the pcp's office, had impacted cerumen, 69209 removal of impacted cerumen using irrigation / lavage was done but it was unsuccessful, patient was then given RX for Debrox. Patient then came back 7 days later had irrigation / lavage done again with success. Would the 69209 be billed for the first attempt with a modifier appended because it was unsuccessful? With 69209 having 0 global days would you then bill for the second 69209. Thank you.

 

[csperoni]

For the first visit, I would say the unsuccessful removal is included in the E/M. I would bill the 69209 for only the 2nd visit.