Reader Question: Use Modifier 78 for Related, Unplanned Procedures

Article Overview

This article discusses a reader question involving postoperative complication management in an ambulatory surgery setting and the related CPT® reporting considerations. It is aimed at coders, billers, and clinical staff who need to understand when a return procedure during a global period may be reported and what general modifier guidance applies. The content focuses on the scenario, the applicable CPT® code set, and the use of a postoperative modifier in the context of an unplanned return to the procedure room.