My physician did a 63277 (removal of mass) at L4 and 22633 (interbody fusion) at L4-L5 as that area was also very degenerated.
He is saying that as both were distinc and separate, both can be billed. My manager agrees that the lesion (mass) is separate and per 59 guideline "a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries)", it qualifies. Therefore, 59 modifier can be used.
Any opinions?
He is saying that as both were distinc and separate, both can be billed. My manager agrees that the lesion (mass) is separate and per 59 guideline "a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries)", it qualifies. Therefore, 59 modifier can be used.
Any opinions?