CPT® 2022: Here’s Why You Can’t Miss This Foreign-Body Guideline Change

Why This Topic Matters

Changes to foundational coding guidance can alter how implant-related procedures are classified and reported. Understanding the updated CPT and ICD-10-CM references helps coding staff review operative reports accurately and stay aligned with current guideline language.

Article Sections

1. When Is an Implant a Foreign Body?

   Introduces the updated CPT surgery guideline language distinguishing intentionally placed implants from unintentionally placed foreign bodies. It also discusses the new guidance involving implants that have moved or are structurally broken.

2. Clear Up How You Should Code Breast Implant Removal

   Explains how the guideline change relates to breast implant removal reporting in general. The section compares intact and broken implant scenarios and notes when related documentation considerations may matter.

3. Hone Diagnosis Coding for Breast Implant Removal

   Reviews related ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding guidance tied to implant-related encounters. It covers pain categories, mechanical complication coding, and a breast-related code expansion discussed in the article.