Orthopedic Coding Alert
Reader Question:
Operating Microscope
Published on Sat Dec 01, 2001
Question: We are receiving denials for 69990 when billed with spine procedures. Is anyone else getting paid for this?
Colorado Subscriber
Answer: Code 69990 (use of operating microscope [list separately in addition to code for primary procedure]) applies to complex spinal surgeries. Medicare will not reimburse for 69990, but private payers should. While you may get some initial denials, many coders report having success with appeals. To bolster your documentation with these claims, include a copy of the coding information from the North American Spine Societys Common Coding Scenarios for Spine Procedures & Injection Techniques.
Other Articles in this issue of
Orthopedic Coding Alert
- Correct Modifiers, Additional Codes Are Key in Overcoming Unique Conditions With THRs
Total hip replacements (THRs) are one of the most commonly performed orthopedic surgeries. Yet these [...] - CMS Memo Changes Rules for Diagnostic Coding
A new CMS policy that goes into effect Jan. 1, 2002, allows doctors to use [...] - You Be the Coder:
Knee Surgery
Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the [...] - Category III Codes May Lead to Reimbursement
In September 2001 the AMA introduced a series of temporary Category III, or emerging-technology, CPT [...] - Reader Question:
Confirmatory Consultation
Question: Should I bill for a confirmatory consultation when a patient requests a second opinion [...] - Reader Question:
Ankle Surgery
Question: Which codes should I use for arthroscopy and debridement of ankle: arthroscopic corticotomy of [...] - Reader Question:
After-Hours Coding
Question: A patient had to be taken into surgery late at night. According to the [...] - Reader Question:
Bundled Procedures
Question: I've gotten a denial from Medicare saying that 63044 is bundled with 63042. Yet [...] - Reader Question:
Operating Microscope
Question: We are receiving denials for 69990 when billed with spine procedures. Is anyone else [...] - Anthrax Coding Report Free on Web
Physicians and other healthcare professionals who provide services to any patients with actual or possible [...] - Reader Question:
Knee Procedures
Question: How should I code a knee arthroscopy with chondroplasty and partial lateral meniscectomy?
Michigan Subscriber [...] - Reader Question:
CCI or AAOS?
Question: The surgeon performed a Bostrom procedure (27698, repair, secondary, disrupted ligament, ankle, collateral [e.g., [...] - Reader Question:
Supply Billing
Question: Im having trouble getting paid for casting supplies (casting material, padding and tape) from [...]
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