Wiki does this sound right? 29888,29881,20680

[Justarose]

The original ACL reconstruction was 10 years ago - pt re injured at work .

Current sx I am trying to code for in ASC

29888 and 29881-59
*here is where I really need your help*There was hardware removal such as: retained sutures, plastic button for fixation, and femoral interference screw...
Am I even close in thinking the code to bill is 20680 for these removals...also can I bill it 3x w/59 mods because of the 3 different components?
thanks !

 

[khopstein]

29888 and 29881 are correct, but I would not put a 59 modifier. According to the CCI edits, 29881 is not bundle with 29888. 20680 is what I would use for removal of hardware. You can only bill once if just one incision was made to remove all three hardwares.

 

[mbort]

I agree with khopstein. No 59 modifier is needed on the 29881.

Did he have to remove the hardware to do the ACL repair? If so, then its not codeable either (per its either CCI guidelines or Medicare, dont remember which) as its considered something that "Had to be done" in order to complete the current surgery. (I'm sure RebeccaWoodward could post the 20680 guidelines in a heartbeat if needed, I know they are posted somewhere else within the forums)

Mary, CPC, COSC

 

[Justarose]

OOPS on the -59 w/the 29881 & 29888

So what will I be in for on the ones I did use it on ?
Thanks for all the help you guys are great !

I am feeling like a baby in a giant pond and I am so afraid of drowning!!!
But thanks for the life jackets

I could swear I read that I was supposed to use it ...Im so foggy