Earlobe FB removal with incision

[hallansmom]

What cpt is appropriate to use for a FB removal of the earlobe without an incision being made? The doc literally squeezed the earring backing out of the earlobe. Please advise.......

 

[jackjones62]

If there was no instrumentation or anesthesia, we're talking a pair of gloves and a squeeze, just chart the E/M service, you really can't bill a procedure.

 

[wisibyusha]

If there wasn't an incision, we cannot report FB removal code for the earlobe.

 

[jackjones62]

Did the physician document a separate "procedure note"? Or just the E/M note indicating he was able to remove the earring back by applying pressure, etc... Are you charging both E/M and procedure or just charging for the procedure?

 

[hallansmom]

The pt came in for the FB of the earlobe. I will bill only the e/m code since no procedure was really performed. He literally just squeezed it out of the earlobe.

Thank you!!!