Orthopedic Coding Alert

Question: Encounter notes indicate that the surgeon performed osteotomy of a patient’s left tibia and fibula. I reported 27705 (Osteotomy; tibia) with modifier LT (Left side) appended; and 27707 (… fibula) with modifiers 59 (Distinct procedural service) and LT appended and received a denial. What did I do wrong?

Louisiana Subscriber

Answer: You should have opted for a combination code instead. On appeal, report 27709 (… tibia and fibula) with modifier LT appended to indicate laterality.