Get to know ICD-10-PCS' new technology codes

Why This Topic Matters

New technology reporting in ICD-10-PCS adds a specialized section that coders need to recognize and understand as new procedures and technologies are added. Familiarity with the section helps ensure accurate interpretation of the code set and awareness of how emerging procedures are represented.

Article Sections

1. Introduction to the New Technology section

   Introduces the ICD-10-PCS New Technology section added for 2016 and explains its place within the code set. Describes the section as a way to classify newer procedures and technologies at a detailed level.

2. Character structure and section overview

   Reviews the seven-character structure used in ICD-10-PCS and outlines the general purpose of each character position within the New Technology section. Notes that the section uses the same overall character framework as other ICD-10-PCS sections.

3. Character 1: New Technology section X

   Explains the first character as the section identifier and describes the general role of codes from this section. Includes a reference to official ICD-10-PCS guidance for the New Technology section.

4. Character 2: Body system being treated

   Summarizes the limited body system choices available in the New Technology section. Focuses on the broad categories used to classify the procedure target area.

5. Character 3: Root operation

   Describes the limited set of root operation options available in this section and presents the general concepts behind them. Covers the broad procedural categories used in New Technology reporting.

6. Character 4: Body part

   Outlines the body part options available for different New Technology body systems. Includes the anatomical groupings and site categories used in this section.

7. Character 5: Approach

   Reviews the approach choices used in New Technology reporting and explains their general role in the code structure. Describes the approach character as one of the standard elements in the seven-character format.

8. Character 6: Device/substance/technology

   Introduces the device and technology options associated with the New Technology section. Presents several examples of newer therapies and technologies referenced by the article.

9. Character 7: Qualifier

   Explains the annual qualifier concept used in the New Technology section. Describes how this character changes over time as additional technologies are added.

10. Examples of codes reported with New Technology codes

    Provides sample code strings that illustrate how New Technology reporting appears in practice. The examples are presented as illustrations of the section format rather than as a full coding guide.