Reader questions:
Yes, you code neuroendoscopic biopsy
Published on Mon Nov 23, 2009
Question:
How should I code for neuroendoscopic biopsy? In the first case, our surgeon performed an endoscopic biopsy for tumor; then he performed an endoscopic biopsy for another patient's pineal cyst. Must I report an "unlisted" procedure code? Arizona Subscriber
Answer:
CPT doesn't include a specific code for these procedures, but you might not have to resort to 64999 (
Unlisted procedure, nervous system). Instead, you might be able to submit 62164 (
Neuroendoscopy, intracranial; with excision of brain tumor, including placement of external ventricular catheter for drainage) for the tumor or cyst biopsies, depending on the extent of lesion removal.
Documentation check:
Verify all the services your surgeon performed. If he didn't complete all services included in the descriptor you should append modifier 52 (
Reduced services).
