Question:
How do we code a transphenoidal hypophysectomy when we do the procedure with an ENT doctor? The ENT doctor says he has his own codes to bill.
Answer:
There are two codes to report this procedure. First, CPT® 61548 (Hypophysectomy or excision of pituitary tumor, transnasal or transseptal approach, nonstereotactic) may be reported if the procedure is performed via an open approach through the nose or septum. Alternatively, 62165 may be reported (Neuroendoscopy, intracranial; Neuroendoscopy, intracranial; with excision of pituitary tumor, transnasal or trans-sphenoidal approach) if the procedure is performed using an endoscope. Each surgeon reports the same CPT® code, 61548 or 62165) appended with modifier 62 (Two Surgeons), also called the co-surgery modifier.