December 2004 page 19b
Coding Consultation:Questions and Answers
Digestive System/ Surgery, 42145 (Q&A)
Question
Would it be appropriate to report
code 42145 for a laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty
procedure?
AMA Comment
CPT code 42145, Palatopharyngoplasty
(eg, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, uvulopharyngoplasty),
should not be reported for a
laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty procedure
because this code is not intended to describe the
laser procedure. Currently, the CPT code set does
not have a specific code that accurately describes
uvulopalatoplasty via laser technique; therefore,
CPT code 42299, Unlisted procedure, palate, uvula,
should be reported.
When reporting an unlisted code to describe a
procedure or service, it will...
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This article presents a coding consultation from CPT Assistant for digestive system surgery. It explains the scope of the question, the CPT context involved, and the general type of guidance offered for handling a procedure that is not directly represented in the code set. It is useful for coders and billing staff who work with ENT/oral and digestive system surgical coding and need to understand how this type of coding inquiry is discussed in the CPT literature.
Why This Topic Matters
It helps readers identify whether the article is relevant to a specific surgical coding question and understand that it addresses a coding consultation rather than a broad clinical review.
Article Sections
Coding Consultation: Questions and Answers
A question-and-answer format discussing a surgical coding issue in the CPT framework. The section centers on whether a specific type of procedure is represented by an existing code or requires alternate reporting.
What You Will Learn
The general topic of the coding question addressed in the article.
How the article frames CPT guidance for a procedure not directly described by a standard code.
What kinds of supporting documentation are discussed in connection with reporting an unlisted procedure.
The broad subject matter covered by the CPT Assistant consultation.
Welcome to the ultimate resource for mastering CPT coding – the CPT® Assistant. This indispensable tool, brought to you by the American Medical Association (AMA), is designed specifically for medical coders, auditors, and billers who strive for accuracy and efficiency in their daily work with patient charts. Whether you are validating codes, training staff, or appealing insurance denials, CPT Assistant provides the authoritative guidance you need to excel.
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