tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2007 Issue 6

Reader Question: Rely on Unlisted -- if It's Appropriate

Question: Our surgeons are using a laparoscopic technique for incisional hernia repairs, but we are continuously getting denials for these procedures. One insurance company even stated that we needed a more specific code before they would consider reimbursement. We are using 49659 (Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, hernioplasty, herniorrhaphy, herniotomy). Is there any other code that we can use or any tips on getting this procedure covered? Louisiana Subscriber Answer: Your coding in this case appears to be correct and is supported by CPT and CMS guidelines, which specifically instruct providers to use an unlisted- procedure code when no available code...

To read the full article, sign in and subscribe to tci General Surgery Coding Alert.


Leverage vital, to-the-point monthly guidance to boost your reporting accuracy and your coding know-how. We make it convenient for your team to stay informed, compliant, and profitable with a subscription to TCI’s General Surgery Coding Alert.

  • Current newsletters added each month
  • Fully searchable archives - over 2100 articles
  • ALL years/issues back to 1999 organized by year and issue
  • Codes mentioned in articles are linked to Code Information pages
  • Code Information pages link back to related articles
Access to this feature is available in the following products:
  • tci General Surgery Coding Alert +Archives

demo
request yours today
 subscribe
start today
 newsletter
free subscription

Thank you for choosing Find-A-Code, please Sign In to remove ads.