Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Use Unlisted Lap Code Even When Another Approach Is Available

Question: My ob-gyn performed a laparoscopic removal of abdominal ob cerclage. Should I report this with 49329?

Texas Subscriber

Answer: Technically, the cervix is part of the uterus, so you should use 58578 (Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, uterus) instead of 49329 (Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, abdomen, peritoneum and omentum), but yes, this is an unlisted procedure. 

Compare the work to 59871 (Removal of cerclage suture under anesthesia [other than local]), which does not differentiate between the approach (vaginal versus abdominal).

Watch out: Do not report 59871, because this was done laparoscopically and under CPT® rules, you code the unlisted laparoscopic code even if another approach code is available and accurate.

Other Articles in this issue of

Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

View All