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Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Use Radiology Code for Mammosite Cath

Published on Fri Feb 13, 2004

Question: I've been using an unlisted-procedure code for mammosite catheters, but I saw information about the procedure that makes me think this isn't correct. What is the correct code?

Nebraska Subscriber
 
Answer: You might have reported 19499 (Unlisted procedure, breast), but this isn't the most accurate code for the procedure. Instead, report 77761 (Intracavitary radiation source application; simple) for the surgical procedure because the physician begins radiation therapy when he places the catheter. Report 01922 (Anesthesia for non-invasive imaging or radiation therapy) for the anesthesia service.
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