Question laparoscopic/robotic component separation musculofascial flaps with anterior abdominal hernia repairs.

[loriroberts36]

Curious how others are coding laparoscopic/robotic component separation musculofascial flaps with anterior abdominal hernia repairs. Our coding leadership has decided to use unlisted code 22999 and compare it to the open code 15734. I watched a webinar from the ACS/American College of Surgeons who recommended using the unlisted laparoscopic, hernioplasty, herniorrhaphy, herniotomy code, 49659 in addition to the appropriate anterior abdominal hernia repair code.

 

[tcooper@nmhs.net]

Lori,
We use code 15734 for open or laparoscopic procedures. If they have a bilateral flap we code as 15734,15734-59, & 49652. Some carrier's want you to use units. Medicare wants us to bill as 15734 on one line with two units. I am attaching an article thats helpful from AAPC. Hope this helps.
Teresa Cooper, CGSC

 

[EmilyC]

I also code it open, since it's technically on the outside of the body. And have the same as above advice, but I've also seen up to 6 flaps done at once, which can get a little tricky with the billing aspect, but as long as it's documented well, it should pay.

 

[hagand]

We code this with 49659 with the comparable code of 15734.