Advanced Search

Anesthesia Coding Alert

YOU BE THE CODER:

Coding Prostate Brachytherapy

Published on Fri Sep 08, 2006

Question: How should I code anesthesia during brachytherapy of the prostate?


Illinois Subscriber


Answer: Coders have different opinions on the best way to report this procedure, whether you're coding for the surgeon or anesthesiologist.
 
Some coders recommend 55859 (Transperineal placement of needles or catheters into prostate for interstitial radioelement application, with or without cystoscopy), which crosses to anesthesia code 00400 (Anesthesia for procedures on the integumentary system on the extremities, anterior trunk and perineum; not otherwise specified).

Another possibility--if the radiologist served as surgeon and performed the prostate volume study--is 76873 (Ultrasound, transrectal; prostate volume study for brachytherapy treatment planning [separate procedure]). Then the anesthesia code is 01922 (Anesthesia for non-invasive imaging or radiation therapy).

Confirm which physician performed the procedure to help steer you toward the best anesthesia code.
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