Forum - Questions & Answers
General surgery CPT code
How would you code a laparoscopic partial colectomy with ileocolostomy when a
laparoscopic appendectomy was done as well. The codes (44205, 44970) are
bundled according to CCI. Is there another code that would include both procedures?
44970
Was the appendectomy an incidental procedure to colectomy, as such there is no additional code, it is included in main procedure/diagnosis.
Incidental - Includes procedures that can be performed along with the primary procedure, but are not essential to complete the procedure. They do not typically have a significant impact on the work and time of the primary procedure. Incidental procedures are not separately reimbursable when performed with the primary procedure.
General surgery CPT code
Pt had an appendiceal tumor with colon perforation
thanks.
General surgery CPT Code
How do we know when to use 44955? We have had some debate about these types of procedures and I am wondering what other people think.
Thank you.
CCI General policy
CPT code 44970 describes a laparoscopic appendectomy and may be reported separately with another laparoscopic procedure code when a diseased appendix is removed. Since removal of a normal appendix with another laparoscopic procedure is not separately reportable, this code should not be reported for an incidental laparoscopic appendectomy.
Lap appy with colectomy
When you do a ileocolectomy (usually right hemicolectomy) the appendix is taken with the specimen in one piece...therefore, I'm not sure your question makes sense, or I'm missing something. If it was an appendiceal tumor/cancer etc...the appendix is taken automatically when you take the colon...(because the appendix is attached to the colon) ...its not physically possible to take the colon and leave the appendix, or to take them separately...thats why those codes can't be billed separately. I don't know if this answered the question or not....but please give more detail about the actual operation if this didn't answer your question.