Advanced Search

Anesthesia Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

MAC for Extubation

Published on Sun Dec 01, 2002

Question: Is it possible to charge for an extubation procedure? The surgeon did the extubation, and we provided MAC (monitored anesthesia care) for it. The procedure lasted nearly an hour and had a supporting diagnosis of mandibular abscess (526.4, Diseases of the jaws; inflammatory conditions). Florida Subscriber Answer: Needing anesthesia for an extubation is extremely rare. As such, there is no CPT code specifically for extubation, so you have to choose the closest appropriate code and explain it to the carrier. Use 31599 (Unlisted procedure, larynx) and include the procedure description as well as supporting documentation to explain the need for an anesthesiologist.
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