[nsurg] instrumentation

Doctor did exploration of anterior fusion and instrumentation, removal of anterior instrumentation and placement of new anterior instrumentation, at the same levels, only 22855 is to be billed? Any suggestions would be very much appreciated.

Mar 7th, 2012 -

re: [nsurg] instrumentation

You should use 22849 - removal and replacement of instrumentation at the exact same levels. Can not report 22855 with 22849 though. IF you are also exploring for pseudoarthrosis, then you may also report 22830 along with 22849 but need to check your documentation for this.
Bonnie Moeller
Ft Wayne Neurosurgery/PMR/NeuroSpine&Pain Surgery Center