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Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

Wound Care:

29580 Is Exclusive To Medically Necessary Unna Boot Application

Published on Mon Oct 25, 2010

Discover why E/M and strapping can't go together as separate codesDid you know that the Correct Coding Initiative (CCI) bundles Unna boot application to many other comprehensive surgeries (e.g. tendon sheath injections, joint aspiration/injection, etc.)? If you're pulling your hair from confusion about this and many other questions about coding Unna boot application, the following Q&As should shed you some light on how to code it properly.Question 1: What Is Unna Boot's Purpose?Answer: The New York Medicare carrier National Government Services LCD L6979 defines Unna boot as a dressing used to treat varicose ulcers of the lower extremities, which are due to increased venous pressure, venous insufficiency, or capillary dysfunction. It consists of a bandage impregnated with a gelatin, zinc oxide, and glycerin paste that the provider layers on the leg ulcer until the bandage becomes rigid. "The resulting pressure and bacteriostatic properties assist in healing," the LCD states.Question 2: Do [...]
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