Diagnosis Coding for Amputation of Leg

Is a pathology report required for a Surgeon to code a diagnosis of gangrene for an amputation of the leg. The Operation Report has been dictated indicating Gangrene. The physician did not order a biopsy and the leg has been destroyed by the hospital.

re: Diagnosis Coding for Amputation of Leg

Gangrene means a considerable mass of body tissue dies (necrosis). that is seen even before surgery. If the physician documents gangrene, gangrene it is.