BCBS / Coding Challenge

Surgery Coding: Narrow Your Options for Birmingham Hip Procedure

Include this term in Box 19 to indicate the type of implant. Question: One of our surgeons says we should use a total hip code for Birmingham resurfacing even if he doesn’t complete a total hip procedure; another physician says to use an unlisted code . What’s the correct answer? Washington Subscriber Answer: Both of your physicians could [...] Related articles:

  1. Test Yourself: Total Knee Replacement (TKR) Coding Can you tackle an op note like this one...
  2. How Do I Code An Arthroscopic To Open Ankle Surgery?Question: Our surgeon attempted to remove a loose body in...
  3. Podiatry Coding Education: 28293 For Joint Replacement for Hallux LimitusQuestion: Our podiatrist performed a joint replacement for hallux limitus and...

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February 23, 2010
Coding Challenge

How Do I Code An Arthroscopic To Open Ankle Surgery?

Question: Our surgeon attempted to remove a loose body in the ankle arthroscopically, but it was too large so he had to perform an open removal. Do I bill only for the open procedure, or include the arthroscopic attempt as a discontinued procedure? Answer: Because your surgeon completed the procedure as an open case, you’ll report [...] Related articles:

  1. 4 Tips Position Your ‘Multiple Scope’ Codes PerfectlyOrtho coders: Here’s what you should do when there’s no...
  2. Coding Challenge: Foot Foreign Body Removal Vs. Soft-Tissue FBRQuestion: Our physician performed a foreign-body removal (FBR) on a...
  3. Medicare Coverage for Bariatric Surgery: Do You Know These BMI Guidelines?Question: I heard that Medicare made some changes about diabetic...

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January 3, 2010