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Orthopedic Coding Alert

Reader questions:

Look to 'unlisted' for no fusion

Published on Mon Nov 02, 2009

Question: The orthopedic surgeon performed an anterior thoracic release without fusion. How should I code the procedure? Connecticut Subscriber Answer: CPT does not include a code specifically for the procedure you describe, possibly because the surgeon normally performs arthrodesis during the surgery. If your surgeon did not perform arthrodesis (fusion), report 22899 (Unlisted procedure, spine).
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