lap chole with open incarcerated ventral hernia

Has anyone billed 47562 with 49587? If so, do I need to add -59 modifier? The hernia was not diagnosed until incidentally found while placing trocars for chole.

lap chole w/open incarcerated ventral hernia

I think the code you need for the incarcerated ventral hernia repair should be 49561 and if mesh was used don't forget to use 49568 as well. I would append a 59 modifier on the hernia repair and mesh if used. 47562, 49561-59

lap chole with open incarcerated ventral hernia

Thanks. Oh gosh, I gave the incarcerated umbilical hernia code. OOPS! I will bill it then.

59

I don't think you would need 59 on the hernia repair. an umbilical hernia repair is not consider integral to a cholecystectomy. overuse of 59 can raise red flags.