• If this is your first visit, be sure to check out the FAQ & read the forum rules. To view all forums, post or create a new thread, you must be an AAPC Member. If you are a member and have already registered for member area and forum access, you can log in by clicking here. If you've forgotten the password it can be reset on our sign in section by entering your registered Email Address or Username here. To start viewing messages, select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below..

Wiki Excisional debridement of incisional necrosis

Create Wiki
K

katrinabgood

Networker
Messages
29
Location
Hazlet, NJ
Best answers
0
Can somebody help me? (new coder here!)

Pt came to Minor Surgery with Incision necrosis, left TMA. (transmetarsal amputation) Procedure performed is excisional debridement using scalpel and versajet of left TMA site.

1. Do I code it as a complication of the TMA surgery 997.69?

2. Scalpel was used to remove eschar, which revealed fibrous tissue. This was debrided w/Versajet to stimulate bleeding tissue. Is this actually an excisional debridement?

I've been playing around with this for a while and have finally given up!

Any advice is gratefully appreciated!
 
An excisional debridement changes the margins of the wound. Pre- and post-debridement measurements are different. If the wound margins don't change because only fibrinous slough or necrotic tissue is removed, code for active wound care management 97597-97598.
The diagnosis seems reasonable, although I would also check for underlying conditions that may affect healing (e.g. diabetes, PAD, etc.).

Jen
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top