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One of our docs performed a right sided posterior interbody fusion with bone graft. My question is--because the fusion was performed on the right side only--should it get billed out with a reduced service modifer of -52?
Ok. I don't think the -52 is necessary for this, but you'll really need to look at the documentation. Was the instrumentation only put on the right side, or was it just the incision that was right sided? If cages were applied in the usual manner than the fusion was done and should not be reduced (-52)
Amanda
I agree with Amanda. 52 isn't necessary. The CDR states (in part)..."Part of the lamina may be removed on one side and/or part of the disc may be removed to facilitate preparation of the interspace for fusion"