Coding Challenge / Pain Management

Pain Management Coding: Endoscopic Lumbar Nerve Decompression

Hint: Think ‘unlisted procedure.’ Question: One of our physicians is looking into “endoscopic lumbar spinal nerve decompression.” One of the medical device representatives indicated he could bill it like the lateral extraforaminal approach for lumbar decompression, but I haven’t found much information. What’s your advice? Answer: Despite what you physician might have heard, your most appropriate choice [...] Related articles:

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November 14, 2009
CCI / Coding Challenge / modifier 59

Eye Surgery Coding Challenge: Denials for 15823 & 67904

Question: I started receiving denials for 15823 and 67904. To report this combo, should I use a modifier? Answer: If the ophthalmologist performs the blepharoplasty (bleph) with excessive weight (15823, Blepharoplasty, upper eyelid; with excessive skin weighting down lid) on one eye and the blepharoptosis (ptosis) repair (67904, Repair of blepharoptosis; [tarso] levator resection or advancement, [...] Related articles:

  1. Spinal Surgery Coding Challenge: Is Hemilaminectomy Bundled With Fusion?Question: Our orthopedic surgeon turned in a note that says,...
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  3. Spinal Surgery Coding Challenge: Tethered Cord Release & Dural Tag RemovalQuestion: My neurosurgeon released a tethered cord under the microscope,...

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November 4, 2009