Wiki Modifier 53

[shellysk8]

If a surgical procedure is discontinued, the surgeon should bill the procedure with a modifier -53 to indicate this. Is there any reason that the anesthesiologist should indicate the -53? The base units for the code would not change, and the time units would indicate the shortened procedure, so my belief is no, but I am looking to confirm this.

Thank you in advance! Shelly Kubacki, MPA, CPC

 

[pamtienter]

I agree with you that they don't use the 53 modifier. They bill for their time.

 

[AYCPC]

I concur.