Reader Questions: Count Incisions for Multiple Hernia Repairs

Why This Topic Matters

Multiple hernia repairs can involve overlapping operative sites and reporting nuances that affect claim accuracy and payment. This article helps readers understand the broad documentation and code-set issues that arise when more than one hernia repair is performed.

Article Sections

1. Question

   The reader presents a scenario involving multiple laparoscopic hernia repairs performed on different sides and asks whether all procedures can be reported separately.

2. Answer

   The response discusses the general reporting approach for opposite-side repairs, laterality modifiers, and how a related femoral repair may be considered in relation to the inguinal procedures.

3. Note

   A closing note addresses an additional circumstance involving separate mesh placement, medical necessity documentation, and a possible unlisted procedure code with an additional modifier.