Wiki use of modifier 78

[GPAUL9]

The way I read the instructions for use of the 78 modifier it would go on the 2nd procedure, the return visit to the O.R. am I correct?

 

[kfantetti]

If you have an unplanned procedure that is done within the 90 day global period of a previous procedure, done by the same Physician, and related either to the procedure, or the patients condition that warrented the first procedure, then it could be appropriate to append modifier 78 to the second procedure. It is usually due to a complication, so use an ICD-9 code to indicate complication if that is the case. Hope this helps.

 

[monica03]

There is an article in the sept 2012 coding edge magazine about 58 vs 78 vs 79 modifier that might be useful to you.