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Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Incidental Procedure May Mean E/M Only

Published on Mon Jun 26, 2006

Question: I am having trouble finding a code for cauterization of a vaginal polyp with silver nitrate. How should I report the procedure?

Nevada Subscriber
 
Answer: At best, you are looking at 57061 (Destruction of vaginal lesions[s]; simple [e.g., laser surgery, electrosurgery, cryosurgery, chemosurgery]).
 
Keep in mind: Some payers may only reimburse an E/M service for this incidental procedure if they know the procedure only involves the topical application of a caustic substance (similar to the topical application of trichloroacetic acid, TCA).
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