Recognize How to Report Subdermal Contraceptive Removal and Reinsertion
Question: A 28-year-old patient presented to their gynecologist for removal and replacement of a nonbiodegradable etonogestrel contraceptive implant. The existing device had reached the end of its recommended use period. During the procedure, the physician made a small incision in the left upper arm to remove the intact implant. The physician then inserted the new implant through the same incision and confirmed its location by feel. Should we report the removal and insertion separately? Connecticut Subscriber Answer: No, you will not report the removal and insertion with two separate codes, such as 11982 (Removal, non-biodegradable drug delivery implant) and 11981 (Insertion, drug-delivery implant (ie, bioresorbable, biodegradable, non-biodegradable)), because the CPT® code set features a combination code that covers both portions of the procedure. In this case, you’ll assign 11983 (Removal with reinsertion, non-biodegradable drug delivery implant) to report the removal and reinsertion of the nonbiodegradable etonogestrel contraceptive implant because it occurred during the same encounter. You’ll also use Z30.46 (Encounter for surveillance of implantable subdermal contraceptive) to report the reason for the visit and procedure. This code also covers the evaluation, removal, or reinsertion of an implantable subdermal contraceptive device. If the practice provided the contraceptive implant, you’ll assign HCPCS Level II code J7307 (Etonogestrel (contraceptive) implant system, including implant and supplies) to report the supply. Mike Shaughnessy, BA, CPC, Production Editor, AAPC
