Can someone help clarify the appropriate use of modifier 58 as it pertains to "therapy following a surgical procedure"? I have a patient who had a meniscectomy and chondroplasty for left knee DJD and degenerative medial meniscal tear. One month later the patient returns to the office for his post op visit and it is noted that he has moderate effusion of the left knee so the provider aspirates 90 cc of fluid from the knee and injects steroids into the knee. Would it be appropriate to report the arthrocentesis (20610) with modifier 58 or is this procedure considered global to the previous surgery?
Thanks to all who reply.
Thanks to all who reply.