Wiki Z code question

[margiemed117]

I was wondering if anyone co0uld tell me from experience if they have used Z538 as a first listed code before? I did and was told I could not....I think I can...but who am I right? I would greatly appreciate any and all comments....thank you and have a great day!

 

[SharonCollachi]

Z53.8, Procedure and Treatment not carried out for other reasons.

I would say no.

 

[krithika]

it is not acceptable as first listed. it should be given in the second position.

 

[thomas7331]

There is no prohibition on using the Z codes as first-listed. However, per the ICD-10 guidelines IV.A.2: "When a patient presents for outpatient surgery (same day surgery), code the reason for the surgery as the first-listed diagnosis (reason for the encounter), even if the surgery is not performed due to a contraindication." So for this particular code, it would be inappropriate since the guidelines require that the reason for visit be listed first.