February 1998 page 11c
Coding Consultation
Modifiers -50, -52 (Q&A)
Question
When a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are performed bilaterally, is it appropriate to append the -50 modifier to the procedure code?
AMA Comment
The codes for tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (42820-42836) are intended to represent bilateral procedures. Therefore, it is not appropriate to append the -50 modifier when performed bilaterally. If the procedure is performed unilaterally, then the appropriate code would be reported with modifier -52, Reduced Services, appended.
Modifiers -50, -52 (Q&A). CPT® Assistant. 1998; February 1998 page 11c
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articles:
Note: The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AMA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.
Article Overview
This short CPT coding consultation addresses a question from February 1998 about how a specific surgical procedure family is reported when performed bilaterally versus unilaterally. It is useful for coders, auditors, and compliance staff who need to understand the scope of the guidance, the CPT code family involved, and the modifiers discussed in the article.
Why This Topic Matters
Modifier usage can affect how procedures are reported and interpreted in CPT-based claims review. This article helps readers understand the topic covered, the applicable code family, and the general nature of the official guidance without replacing the premium content.
Article Sections
Coding Consultation
A question-and-answer coding discussion from a February 1998 CPT Assistant page. The section focuses on reporting considerations for a surgical procedure family and the related modifiers covered in the consultation.
What You Will Learn
What topic the coding consultation addresses
Which CPT procedure family is discussed
Which modifiers are referenced in the guidance
The general format of the AMA commentary in this question-and-answer piece
Who Should Read This
Medical coders
Coding auditors
Compliance professionals
Billing staff
Revenue cycle teams
Code Ranges Discussed
CPT: 42820-42836
Modifiers Discussed
CPT: -50
CPT: -52
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