AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 1994 Fifth Issue; Q & A
Rewiring for unstable sternum
What are the appropriate procedure codes for sternal debridement, removal of sternal wires, and rewiring for unstable sternum status post sternotomy for coronary artery bypass graft? We considered assigning code 34.79, Other repair of chest wall, but we do not feel this is appropriate. However, a previously published Q&A in Coding Clinic, January-February 1987 p. 13, advised this for secondary closure of the sternum. Also, we do not feel code 78.51, Internal fixation of bone without reduction, (sternum) is appropriate, since Coding Clinic, First Quarter 1993, p. 19, stated, "sternal wires are not considered internal fixation devices." Please clarify. ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This coding Q&A discusses how to approach procedure coding for postoperative sternal care after sternotomy, with attention to debridement, removal of sternal wires, and rewiring in the setting of an unstable sternum. It is relevant to hospital inpatient coders, coding educators, and reimbursement staff who work with postoperative thoracic and cardiac surgery records and need to understand how the article frames related code-set options and prior Coding Clinic guidance.
Why This Topic Matters
Postoperative sternal repairs can be challenging to code correctly because similar procedures may appear to fit more than one procedure category. This article helps readers understand the coding context and the role of prior published guidance in selecting an appropriate inpatient procedure code.
What You Will Learn
- The coding context for postoperative sternal debridement and rewiring
- How the article frames code-set selection for unstable sternum cases
- How prior published Coding Clinic guidance is discussed in relation to these procedures
- What types of documentation scenarios are being considered for postoperative chest wall and sternal repair coding
Who Should Read This
- Inpatient hospital coders
- Coding educators
- Clinical documentation specialists
- Revenue cycle professionals
- Cardiothoracic surgery coding staff
Codes Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com