What is the correct code(s) to bill for mini lateral thoracotomy and repair of lung parenchyma?
The note reads:
A very small mini thoractomy about the chest tube site was performed, about 3 inches. The interspace was entered and the adhesions of lung parenchyma were taken down using saline irrigation and intermittent inflation of the lung. The whole lung parenchyma was examined. There were no residual blebs that could be encountered. There was a small area of flank parenchyma in the anterior aspect of the left upper lobe near the fissure. No other site for air leak could be approved. That area was treated with 3 passes of Endo GIA stapler. Again the lung was tested and no significant air leak could be seen with the lung under water. Tisseel glue was used over the suture line.
Thank you in advance
Ruth Ann
The note reads:
A very small mini thoractomy about the chest tube site was performed, about 3 inches. The interspace was entered and the adhesions of lung parenchyma were taken down using saline irrigation and intermittent inflation of the lung. The whole lung parenchyma was examined. There were no residual blebs that could be encountered. There was a small area of flank parenchyma in the anterior aspect of the left upper lobe near the fissure. No other site for air leak could be approved. That area was treated with 3 passes of Endo GIA stapler. Again the lung was tested and no significant air leak could be seen with the lung under water. Tisseel glue was used over the suture line.
Thank you in advance
Ruth Ann