Wiki CPT OPEN codes 43845 & 43860 - almost always done laparoscopically

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the two codes listed above are OPEN codes, however almost always done laparoscopically by Bariatric Surgeons. Always submitted using the open code and always have gotten paid, even on an appeal. I know this sounds strange but once upon of time I read an article that MCR (or other big commercial ins co.) were accepting the open codes BECAUSE they did not want all the unlisted procedure codes submitted. and they knew the approach was laparoscopic. Has anyone else heard of this? Or if your General surgeons or Bariatric Surgeons are using the 43845 & 43860 are you submitting with a UNLISTED PROCEDURE CODE? if lap. approach was used?
 
I don't code bariatric, but gynonc. The rule has always been to NEVER use an open code for laparoscopic, even if it means unlisted.
This article from FACS states the same, and even gives examples of GI surgeries done laparoscopically. https://bulletin.facs.org/2017/08/unlisted-procedures-strategies-for-successful-reimbursement/
Unless I saw something in writing from CMS or my MAC, I would never use an open for a laparoscopic. I understand it takes more work and time using unlisted, but it would be incorrect coding.
 
I don't code bariatric, but gynonc. The rule has always been to NEVER use an open code for laparoscopic, even if it means unlisted.
This article from FACS states the same, and even gives examples of GI surgeries done laparoscopically. https://bulletin.facs.org/2017/08/unlisted-procedures-strategies-for-successful-reimbursement/
Unless I saw something in writing from CMS or my MAC, I would never use an open for a laparoscopic. I understand it takes more work and time using unlisted, but it would be incorrect coding.
thank you. I appreciate the reference site attached.
 
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