Colonoscopy

What is the correct way to code an "incomplete colonoscopy" I have gotten different opinions from each coder that I work with...Do you code as far as the physician got or do you code what he intended to do with a modifier 74-this is for a facility not a physician. Any help is greatly appreciacted!! Thank you!

re: COLONOSCOPY

Colonoscopy code with modifier 74 if he did not pass the splenic flexure.

re: COLONOSCOPY

The colonoscope must pass the splenic flexure. If this is not achieved, it is an incomplete colonoscopy. Per Medicare guidelines, the procedure should be coded as a colonoscopy with a 53 modifier, which will allow you to repeat the procedure within the restricted time period and get full payment for the second procedure. Even if the scope was advanced beyond the splenic flexure but the visualization was poor and the physician wants to repeat the procedure within the restricted time period, add the 53 modifier. Commercial payers may require a modifier -52 (reduced services), instead of modifier -53.

re: COLONOSCOPY

Modifier 53 is for the physician. 74 is for the facility charge.