tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2007 Issue 5

Reader Question: Carefully Choose Between Modifiers 52 and 53

Question: How should I decide between modifiers 52 and 53? For instance, what if the surgeon stops a procedure because of an uncooperative patient? What if he stops a procedure because the patient is in danger?Pennsylvania SubscriberAnswer: Modifier 52 (Reduced services) applies when -a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the physician's discretion,- according to CPT's Appendix A, -Modifiers.-You should append modifier 53 (Discontinued procedure) if the physician elects to terminate a surgical or diagnostic procedure -due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient,- according to CPT...

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