You Be the Coder:
Ruptured Biceps Tendon and Forearm
Published on Tue Oct 17, 2006
Question: What procedure and diagnosis codes should I submit for the repair of a patient's ruptured biceps tendon and forearm?
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Answer: The best diagnosis is ICD-9 727.62 (Rupture of tendon, nontraumatic; tendons of biceps [long head]).
The surgical code 24342 (Reinsertion of ruptured biceps or triceps tendon, distal, with or without tendon graft) crosses to 01710 (Anesthesia for procedures on nerves, muscles, tendons, fascia, and bursae of upper arm and elbow; not otherwise specified).
Some coders recommend 01716 (Anesthesia for procedures on nerves, muscles, tendons, fascia and bursae of upper arm and elbow; tenodesis, rupture of long tendon of biceps) instead because it has a more specific descriptor and carries two more base units (five units versus three units for 01710).
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