Urology Coding Alert

Question: How should I report gold seed marker placement performed in the office when the urologist does a transrectal ultrasound, ultrasound for guidance, and placement of marker seeds?

Arkansas Subscriber

Answer: You should first report CPT 55876 (Placement of interstitial device[s] for radiation therapy guidance [e.g., fiducial markers, dosimeter], prostate, (via needle, any approach) single or multiple) for the actual seed placement.

For the radiological portion of the procedure, code 76872 (Ultrasound, transrectal) for the transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) and 76942 (Ultrasonic guidance for needle placement [e.g., biopsy, aspiration, injection, localization device], imaging supervision and interpretation) for the ultrasonic guidance.

Don't miss: Since your urologist is performing this procedure in the office, you're likely using your own supply of gold marker seeds. Therefore, you should also report A4648 (Tissue marker, implantable, any type, each) as well to recoup the cost of the seeds. Note the cost of purchase in box 19 of the CMS-1500 form or the equivalent space for electronic submission. Remember to retain the invoice for possible payer request at a later date.