Advanced Search

Radiology Coding Alert

Anatomy:

150.x-156.x Match to Gastrointestinal Anatomy Sites

Published on Tue May 03, 2011

Stay alert for most appropriate code for 'overlapping sites.'If you have trouble distinguishing the cecum from the sigmoid colon or the duodenum from the descending colon, take a moment to review the graphic below. To see how anatomy can compare to your coding options, check the table, which offers a sampling of codes related to primary neoplasm diagnoses.Caution: When choosing codes for your claims, always look at both the ICD-9 index and the tabular list to be sure you have the most appropriate code. This precaution is especially important when documentation indicates neoplasms of contiguous or overlapping sites. Notes in the tabular list will often instruct you to use an "other specified sites" code ending in .8 for these cases.For example, ICD-9 offers 151.8 (Malignant neoplasm of stomach; other specified sites of stomach) with the note: "Malignant neoplasm of contiguous or overlapping sites of stomach whose point of origin cannot [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Radiology Coding Alert

View All