Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: The patient had fracture repair and returned with several fracture blisters.  Our surgeon unroofed the blisters. Can we report 10180 (Incision and drainage, complex, postoperative wound infection)?

Alaska Subscriber

Answer: If your surgeon feels compelled to charge for this service, you may best report 10140 (Incision and drainage of hematoma, seroma or fluid collection). This service is not reportable if the patient is Medicare primary as procedures performed in the office to treat surgical complications during the postoperative period are inclusive.