Reader Question:
Bunionectomy
Published on Tue May 01, 2001
Question: Can you suggest the anesthesia and surgical codes for a bunionectomy (complete excision of the bunion heel)?
New Mexico Subscriber
Answer: The surgical codes for correction of a bunion are usually used for bunionectomy. If the physician performs a complete bone excision, codes 28299 (lapidus type procedure; by other methods [e.g., double osteotomy]) or 28111 (ostectomy, complete excision; first metatarsal head) are appropriate. The cross code to use for administering the anesthesia is 01480 (anesthesia for open procedures on bones of lower leg, ankle, and foot; not otherwise specified).