Wiki 78 modifier

[mschaller]

We are billing a surgery with a -78 modifer because it was a return to the OR for a related procedure. We have been told that billing another surgery with a -78 modifer does not extend the post op period. Using this information we have the post op period ending 90 days after the original surgery. Does anyone know of a resource with documentation showing that a -78 modifier does not extend the post op period? This information is needed to appeal an insurance denial.

 

[mhstrauss]

We are billing a surgery with a -78 modifer because it was a return to the OR for a related procedure. We have been told that billing another surgery with a -78 modifer does not extend the post op period. Using this information we have the post op period ending 90 days after the original surgery. Does anyone know of a resource with documentation showing that a -78 modifier does not extend the post op period? This information is needed to appeal an insurance denial.

Here are 2 links that support your information that modifier 78 does not reset the global period:

http://www.aaos.org/news/aaosnow/sep09/managing5.asp

http://www.wpsmedicare.com/part_b/resources/modifiers/modifier-78.shtml

I thought I remembered seeing the same info on CMS's site previously, but of course I can't find it now when I'm looking for it

Hope this helps!!