AR2728
Expert
I have recently taken on surgical coding and I am very confused by what I have been taught and what I have read in the coding companion regarding appendectomy codes 44950 & 44955.
It appears that 44950 should only be used in the istance of an incidental appendectomy. So when my surgeon performs an expl laparotomy that reveals acute appendicitis, then performs the appendectomy I would code 49000 and 44955. The previous coders nearly always billed 44950 for every appendectomy. Can someone please explain when 44950 is appropriate to bill? Will I nearly always code 44955 when done with another procedure and there is an indicated diagnosis? I'm extremly frustrated and confused by what I have been taught and what I have read.
It appears that 44950 should only be used in the istance of an incidental appendectomy. So when my surgeon performs an expl laparotomy that reveals acute appendicitis, then performs the appendectomy I would code 49000 and 44955. The previous coders nearly always billed 44950 for every appendectomy. Can someone please explain when 44950 is appropriate to bill? Will I nearly always code 44955 when done with another procedure and there is an indicated diagnosis? I'm extremly frustrated and confused by what I have been taught and what I have read.