Wiki 31622 change

[candicane1010]

I am a little confused with the 2010 changes to 31622 Bronchoscopy. Are they now saying that I cannot bill this along with my V.A.T.S codes? Or can I bill it with a 59 - modifier?

Help much appreciated...thank you!

 

[lisigirl]

Really, the only change is in the description. Now it says that fluoroscopic guidance is included when performed (which isn't much different from the old definition). I would say you can bill it the way you always have.

I will add though, the Society of Thoracic Surgeons has stated that the diagnostic bronchoscopy (31622) is a separate procedure and you should not be billing for this when performed with a more comprehensive procedures unless the op note is clear that a previous diagnostic bronchoscopy has not been done prior.

I only bill the 31622 when the entire procedure being performed is diagnostic. If the surgeon is doing a surgical procedure to treat the patient (ie: a lobectomy), I don't bill for the bronch.

Lisi, CPC

 

[candicane1010]

Thanks Lisi