Advanced Search

Anesthesia Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Groshong Code Depends on Service Provided

Published on Tue Nov 01, 2005

Question: The anesthesia record lists -Groshong catheter R- as the procedure. How should I code this?


Michigan Subscriber


Answer: You should review two things before coding this procedure: whether the anesthesiologist actually placed the catheter and what the -R- stands for (removal, replacement, etc.).

If the anesthesiologist placed the catheter, report it as a surgical service with 36557 (Insertion of tunneled centrally inserted central venous catheter, without subcutaneous port or pump; under 5 years of age) or 36558 (- age 5 years or older). Remember these are flat-fee services so you don't track or report the physician's time.

Report anesthesia code 00532 (Anesthesia for access to central venous circulation) along with the appropriate time units if your physician provided anesthesia while another physician placed the catheter.
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