AMA CPT® Assistant - 1998 Issue 12 (December)
Musculoskeletal System, 26843 (Q&A) (December 1998)
December 1998 page 10a Coding Consultation Musculoskeletal System, 26843 (Q&A) Question Can code 26843 , Arthrodesis, carpometacarpal joint, digits other than thumb , be reported more than once if arthrodesis is performed on multiple digits? AMA Comment Yes. Code 26843 can be reported per digit with the use of the -51 modifier. The phrase "digits other than thumb" is not intended to imply that the code is reported only one time for all digits. Musculoskeletal System, 26843 (Q&A). CPT® Assistant. 1998; December 1998 page 10a ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This article is a short CPT coding consultation from AMA CPT Assistant focused on a musculoskeletal system question about reporting a procedure when more than one digit is treated. It is useful for coders, auditors, and billing professionals who need to understand the scope of the guidance and the related CPT modifier reference without relying on the full premium text.
Why This Topic Matters
It addresses a common coding interpretation issue in musculoskeletal procedure reporting and points to a modifier used in the discussion, which can affect claim preparation and coding review.
What You Will Learn
- The coding topic addressed in the Q&A
- The general reporting issue involving multiple digits
- The modifier referenced in the guidance
- How the article frames the CPT consultation context
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Billing staff
- Orthopedic practice staff
Codes Discussed
Modifiers Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com