tci Part B Insider - 2013 Issue 44

Reader Question: Avoid Confusion Over Lavage and Cell Washing Reporting

Question: Bronchoscopy dictation states, “copious amounts of mucopurulent, brownish material noted in all airways. These were removed with suction and lavage, and samples were sent to lab for routine studies.” Should this be coded as 31622? Answer: Your physician may do a bronchoalveolar lavage with a diagnostic intent, though sometimes it may be done as a treatment for the underlying condition. This procedure is done for diagnostic purposes and is different than a therapeutic bronchoscopy done for removal of mucus plugs that may be causing atelectasis. Bronchoalveolar lavage poses a coding challenge as there are two similar...

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