AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2011 Issue 3; Ask the Editor
Endoscopic Brush Biopsy of Lung
The patient had a bronchoscopy with biopsy. Brushings and washings were taken of the left lower lobe of the lung where a necrotic tumor was discovered. Can code 33.27, Closed endoscopic biopsy of lung, be assigned due to the lung tissue (alveoli) noted on pathology? ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article explains coding considerations for a bronchoscopy-related brush biopsy of the lung and clarifies how procedure documentation is distinguished from pathology results. It is intended for coders, billers, and compliance staff working with respiratory procedures and procedure-to-code assignment guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
Accurate reporting of bronchoscopic procedures depends on the documented service performed, not on later pathology findings. The article helps reduce misclassification risk in respiratory endoscopy coding.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames coding for a bronchoscopic brush biopsy procedure
- Why procedure documentation is emphasized over pathology findings
- How respiratory endoscopy coding issues are discussed in the article
- The general type of coding reference used for the assignment guidance
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Medical billers
- Coding auditors
- Compliance staff
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com