stacyterramiggi@hotmail.com
Networker
I would just like a little clarity regarding when it is appropriate to bill the Axilla content and when it is not appropriate to bill the Axilla content with a Mastectomy. If I am correct when billing for a Mastectomy the Axilla content itself is included, however if the note states:
Right Breast Mastectomy, right Axilla content:
I would code as 88309 only???
New note different patient:
Left Breast Mastectomy, left Axilla Sentinel node:
I would code as 88309 plus the Sentinel node as 88307 / 88305 depending if it as a biopsy or a resection???
I do not believe it can be a resection when a Mastectomy is performed because the breast would be removed? I really don't know that for sure I am just assuming.
I have tried to find answers above per Google but I can not find very much regarding pathology coding. I feel that coding for pathology is like a secret society and there is no way to find the answers unless you ask a pathology coder and I do not know any so I thought I would post my question to this forum hoping that the pathology coders here could pleasssssse help me understand. I have decided I will code path even if I lose my mind doing it (LOL)
Thank you very much for your expertise!
Right Breast Mastectomy, right Axilla content:
I would code as 88309 only???
New note different patient:
Left Breast Mastectomy, left Axilla Sentinel node:
I would code as 88309 plus the Sentinel node as 88307 / 88305 depending if it as a biopsy or a resection???
I do not believe it can be a resection when a Mastectomy is performed because the breast would be removed? I really don't know that for sure I am just assuming.
I have tried to find answers above per Google but I can not find very much regarding pathology coding. I feel that coding for pathology is like a secret society and there is no way to find the answers unless you ask a pathology coder and I do not know any so I thought I would post my question to this forum hoping that the pathology coders here could pleasssssse help me understand. I have decided I will code path even if I lose my mind doing it (LOL)
Thank you very much for your expertise!