Wiki Coding for polyp not retrieved during colonoscopy

[debemrxs4@aol.com]

The Provider did a snare --but the polyp wasn't retrieved because it got lost when he was trying to bring it out. No specimen was sent to pathology. I can still code this 45385 because technically did the snare, correct?

 

[such78]

with modifier 53 or 74.

 

[nsteinhauser]

such78,
Can you provide documentation that directs coders to use 'incomplete' modifiers for that scenario? There are times the polyps are not retrievable for different reasons. The facility still provided the supplies, space and surgical services (except for sending the specimen to path.) The gastro doctor still provided all the work of doing the complete procedure. -53 and -74 doesn't equate 'couldn't retrieve polyp' for me but if you have references/documentation for that, that would be appreciated.
Thanks.

 

[kboyd22]

The description of 45385 with removal of tumor(s), polyp(s) or other lesion(s) by snare technique. It doesn't say anything about sending the specimen for pathology. The provider removed the polyp, so as long as he advanced the scope to the cecum, he would still bill for the complete 45385.