28240? maybe? I am still learning Podiatry
Austin bunionectomy with osteotomy and tendon release
Coding Clinic for HCPCS - Third Quarter 2007 Page: 5
QUESTION 2
A bilateral modified Austin bunionectomy, proximal phalangeal osteotomy, release of contracted adduction hallucis tendon, and extensor hallucis longus tendon lengthening, was performed at our facility. We assigned CPT code 28299-50 for the double osteotomy of the great toe. We realize that tendon releases are included in the bunionectomy codes, so CPT codes 28208-50, 28232-50, and 28234-50, etc., would not be reported.
Would we code the tendon release when done in the same area of the bunionectomy? Would we code the tendon lengthening performed?
ANSWER
Tendon lengthening is not considered an inclusive component of CPT code 28299; therefore, Modifier 59 would be appended to code 28240.
Report CPT code 28299, Correction, hallux valgus (bunion), with or without sesamoidectomy; by double osteotomy, and code 28240, Tenotomy, lengthening, or release, abductor hallucis muscle, for the procedures performed. Tendon releases are inherent in the bunionectomy procedure and would not be reported.
When reporting additional procedures that are separate and distinct from the bunionectomy procedure, Modifier 59, Distinct procedural service, would be appended.