Wiki planned staged procedure

[kbeagles3]

Although I am uncertain of the exact CPT code, the surgeon will at times perform an open abdominal incision and will pack the area and leave the wound open until the next day when the surgeon will remove the packing and irrigate the area.

is there a modifier that should be appended with the 2nd procedure? this is a slightly different procedure than the first procedure, but by the same physician.

Please advise.

Thanks, Marta

 

[mbort]

The -58 modifier is appropriate for staged/planned procedures during the post operative period.

 

[mmelcam]

Take a look at this link http://www.medicarenhic.com/providers/articles/surgerymod_1207.pdf
It might help you in choosing the correct modifier to use.

 

[codegirl0422]

modifier 58, appendix A in the CPT book describes the code pretty well. there are books on modifier usage. One is published by the AMA, and can be purchased from the Campus Bookstore-medical Management Institute website
http://www.codingbooks.com/index.cfm