tci Outpatient Facility Coding Alert - 2016 Issue 1

Reader Question: Distinguish Left from Right for Thumb Sprain Diagnosis

Question: One of our physicians recently saw a patient with gamekeeper’s thumb. The operative notes indicate our physician examined the thumb and index finger, made the diagnosis, and immobilized the thumb. What codes should I report for the immobilization procedure? Can I report a separate E/M service in this scenario? New Jersey Subscriber Answer: The code that you will report depends on the immobilization technique the physician used. If he performed the immobilization using an ACE bandage or other strapping material, report 29280 (Strapping; hand or finger) for the service. If he applied a thumb spica cast to...

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