Wiki Arthroscopic surgery

[wmcodylee]

so I know that if a wrist arthroscopic procedure is being performed and then is converted into an open procedure it is coded as an open procedure only. But if the surgeon is doing both, but in separate locations on the same wrist for separate diagnosis, can both be coded.

The surgery:

Arthroscopy, radiocarpal and midcarpal joints for TFCC (29846) - three ports are made

Open repair of scapholunate for a tear (25320) - a separate incision is made.

The surgeon knew before surgery he would be doing this. He was NOT performing arthroscopy and then decided to do open procedure.

Any help would be great.

Thanks,

 

[jjose147]

Use 59 Modifier

I would code 25320 and 29846-59 since a separate incision was made.

 

[Orthocoderpgu]

No NCCI edit

This is actually a common coding scenario. Both can be billed as they are for separate pathology and through separate approaches.

The documentation would support that this was not an "arthroscopic" procedure converted to an open.

Should have no problems since there is no edit, but your documentation will back up the codes if you need to send an appeal.

 

[wmcodylee]

Yes documentation backs up both codes. Thank you for the help!!!!!!