Advanced Search

Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Question:

'SMP' Note Means 'RSD'

Published on Thu Jan 06, 2011

Question: Which diagnosis applies to sympathetically maintained pain? Is it the same as reflex sympathetic dystrophy?North Dakota Subscriber Answer: Yes, sympathetically maintained pain (SMP) and reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) are the same condition. But there's a third term you need to know: complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS). In 1995, the medical community changed the name RSD to CRPS to better reflect the nature of the condition and to establish a universal term for research purposes. Most physicians use the term "CRPS," but patients and families still use the familiar term "RSD."ICD-9, however, does not include a listing for CRPS. Instead, you find several diagnoses for RSD under "Dystrophy, sympathetic" (337.2x, Reflex sympathetic dystrophy). Narrow your choice to the best-fitting fifth digit that describes the site. Further distinction: CRPS is classified as two types. Type I is used interchangeably with RSD, which means you can compliantly report the 337.2x codes for [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Anesthesia Coding Alert

View All