Orthopedic Coding Alert
Scoliosis Exams
Question: Our orthopedists often see children for scoliosis screenings. The doctor writes "normal exam" for the diagnosis because he states there are no symptoms or problems. Should we use V codes for the diagnosis? Wisconsin Subscriber Answer: The answer depends on whether your practice performs routine scoliosis screening exams for the school system, or whether you examine children whom the school system identified as having a spinal curve. If your exams are considered "screening," you should report V82.89 (Special screening for other specified conditions). If the school, parents or another physician suspects that the patient actually has scoliosis, report V71.89 (Observation for other specified suspected conditions).
Orthopedic Coding Alert
- Shoulder Surgery Primer:
Code Off the Cuff for RTC Repairs and SAD
" You may be tempted to report an unlisted-procedure code when orthopedic surgeons perform arthroscopic [...] - Know When to Fight for Fluoro Reimbursement
Although many coders argue that fluoroscopy should never be billed separately from injection procedures, there [...] - You Be the Coder:
Arthroscopic Wrist Excision
Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the [...] - Modifier of the Month:
Modifiers -80 and -82 Aid Assistant Surgeon Claims
Orthopedic surgeons from the same practice often serve as one another's assistant surgeons, but this [...] - CMS Announces New Aftercare V Codes
On June 20, CMS announced the ICD-9 code changes for 2003. The revisions most relevant [...] - New 2003 ICD-9 Codes
Although Medicare will accept these codes beginning Oct. 1, carriers must still process claims using [...] - Reader Question:
Two Levels of Epidural
Question: Can we bill 62311 (Injection, single [not via indwelling catheter], not including neurolytic substances, [...] - Reader Question:
Scoliosis Exams
Question: Our orthopedists often see children for scoliosis screenings. The doctor writes "normal exam" for [...] - Correction
The August 2002 Orthopedic Coding Alert featured a "Modifier of the Month" article regarding modifiers [...] - Reader Question:
Pin Removal
Question: Can I charge for pin removal in the office following closed reduction and percutaneous [...] - Reader Question:
Exercise Instruction
Question: What code should I use when the orthopedist teaches the patient exercises for her [...]
