Straighten Out How to Code Testicular Torsion
Question: I have a report where a patient presented to the emergency department (ED) with severe testicular pain. The urologist performed a scrotal ultrasound, which revealed testicular torsion. The urologist then performed an orchiopexy to untwist the testicle. The provider diagnosed the patient with extravaginal torsion of the spermatic cord. What codes will I assign for the encounter? Arkansas Subscriber Answer: Use 54640 (Orchiopexy, inguinal or scrotal approach) to report the orchiopexy procedure. This procedure is usually performed to help move undescended testicles into the scrotum; however, with adult patients, urologists will perform an orchiopexy to treat testicular torsion. Next, you’ll assign 76870 (Ultrasound, scrotum and contents) for the ultrasound of the patient’s scrotum. Lastly, assign N44.01 (Extravaginal torsion of spermatic cord) to report the documented diagnosis. The spermatic cord supplies blood to the testicles, and when the cord becomes twisted, it can cut off the testicles’ blood supply. This is typically a medical emergency. Mike Shaughnessy, BA, CPC, Production Editor, AAPC
