Urology Coding Alert

Key: Approach is the first documentation detail you should look for. Many urologists perform female prolapse repair procedures at some point. These ventures into urogynecology can leave even the most seasoned coder scratching her head. Plus, changes in payer policies about when you can separately report mesh insertion has only muddied the waters. But don't fret. Choosing the correct repair code is as simple as following this threestep path. Step 1: Differentiate Anterior Colporrhaphy, Paravaginal Defect Repair When a patient presents to your office with a prolapse of the anterior vaginal wall, which is commonly called a cystocele (618.01, Prolapse of vaginal walls without mention of uterine prolapse; cystocele, midline or 618.02, Prolapse of vaginal walls without mention of uterine prolapse; cystocele, lateral), your urologist will perform either an anterior colporrhaphy or a paravaginal defect repair. Therefore, you'll have to choose between four procedure codes, based on the procedure your [...]