Wiki delayed primary closures

[kadensmom]

What do I use for a delayed primary closures when no dehiscence or infection is involved? Patient developed compartment syndrome of the hand and carpal tunnel as a result of IV infiltration. My ortho performed a decompressive fasciotomy and carpal tunnel release, and then two days later, irrigated and closed the five incisions that were created to treat the compartment syndrome.

I know I'll need a 58...is it something where I could bill the initial 26037/52 and 64721/52 because he didn't close the wounds, and then bill the exact same codes with 52/58 when the wounds were closed? Not sure what to do with this as it doesn't really meet 13160 or 12020-12021.

Thanks,

Kara Hawes, CPC

 

[BCrandall]

Kara,

My coding software says unlisted (17999) for the secondary closure. I'd have to agree in this situation. Don't forget your complication diagnosis codes (999.9, 998.89)!