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Ob-Gyn Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Fetal Vesicocentesis

Published on Sat Dec 01, 2001

Test your coding knowledge.  Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the box below for the answer.

Question: What is the code for fetal vesicocentesis, with a diagnosis of "abnormality of fetal urethra"?

Texas Subscriber

 
 
Answer: The term "vesicocentesis" refers to aspiration of the bladder. The closest code in CPT is  51000 (aspiration of bladder by needle). There is no code specific to the fetus, but the procedure on a fetus requires some interesting manipulation, including possible ultrasonic guidance.
 
If ultrasonic guidance is needed, you can add modifier -22 (unusual procedural services) with appropriate documentation of the extra work. But many payers may decide this procedure is experimental, so be prepared to appeal if the claim is denied.

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