Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Use caution when choosing between 350.1 and 729.2 or risk denials. Here's the scenario: You are coding a peripheral nerve procedure performed by your neurologist, but her documentation mentions only the trigeminal nerve -- a type of cranial nerve. Do you know the right diagnosis code? Clear up any confusion and code correctly every time with these inside secrets. Tip 1: Note Differences In Physician-s/Coding Terms The nervous system is divided into two parts: the central nervous system (or CNS),which consists of the brain and spinal cord; and the peripheral nervous system (or PNS), which consists of spinal nerves and cranial nerves. (See diagram on page 35.) Spinal nerves in the PNS extend from the spinal cord, connecting the CNS to the limbs and organs. The 12 cranial nerves of the PNS connect the brain to the periphery.Peripheral nerve disorders arise from diseases such as diabetes, infection, and nerve compression. They [...]