• 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 Lap single lymph node removal during nephrectomy?

toria11

Guru
Messages
204
Location
Clearwater, FL
Best answers
0
During a laparoscopic partial nephrectomy the surgeon also removed one left perihilar lymph node to check for metastases. How would I code this? 38570? Or the unlisted 38589 and comp to 38570 (or other code)?

Thanks.
 
The issue with using 38570 is the description states "retroperitoneal lymph node." I don't think you could classify a perihilar lymph node as retroperitoneal. As there is no other laparoscopic lymphadenectomy CPT more appropriate, I would suggest unlisted with comparison to 38570.
Clinical info is not my strongest skill and I would confirm with physician or ACP that it was in fact perihilar LN and whether or not that could be considered retroperitoneal.
 
Top