General Surgery Coding Alert

Question: Can I report one unit of 46221 for each hemorrhoid the surgeon removes using simple ligature?


Arizona Subscriber


Answer: No, you should not report 46221 (Hemorrhoidectomy, by simple ligature [e.g., rubber band]) for each hemorrhoid the surgeon removes by simple ligature.

You may report only a single unit of 46221 per session, regardless of the number of hemorrhoids the surgeon removes, according to CPT guidelines. But if the patient returns later for additional removals, the physician may again report 46221.

Some surgeons may choose to limit the number of bandings to two or fewer per session to minimize potential complications.