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Urology Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Omit Modifier for Repeat Vasectomy

Published on Wed May 25, 2005

Question: If a patient had a vasectomy in October, and had to have it repeated in April because the first one was unsuccessful, how should I code it? Would I need modifier -76 (Repeat procedure by same physician)? What would the diagnosis code be?


Rhode Island Subscriber
Answer: Report 55250 (Vasectomy, unilateral or bilateral [separate procedure], including postoperative semen examination[s]) without any modifiers. Because the global surgical period for 55250 is 90 days, the procedure in April would not be included within the global period of the first vasectomy performed in October.

For a primary diagnosis, report V25.2 (Encounter for contraceptive management; sterilization). Report 998.89 (Other specified complications of procedures, not elsewhere classified; other specified complications) as a secondary diagnosis.
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