Wiki Unsuccessful FNA coding

[Anug123]

Hi all,


How will you code for the following procedure...

Thoracentesis:

The right hemithorax puncture site was marked and steriled, prepped. While aspirating with Yueh needle, no fluid could be aspirated and the needle was removed adn sterile dressing was applied.

Do we need code 32422-52 or 32422 alone

I read somewhere whether the fluid was aspirated or not, it doesn't matter, the procedure should be coded completely. Please advice and provide documented reference if available.

Regards
Prabha

 

[Lisa Bledsoe]

I would not use mod -52. There is not a reduction of service just because there was no fluid aspirated, your physician still did the entire procedure. I think the definition of the modifier in CPT is pretty clear.

 

[Anug123]

Thank you Lisa