tci Part B Insider - 2009 Issue 17

READER QUESTION :Note Separate Locations to Determine How to Report Hardware Removal

Hint: Know whether the fracture care codes are the same and whether the implants are part of the same fixation device. Question: My physician performed a hardware removal procedure from a patients tibia, and then subsequently performed a separate hardware removal from the patients fibula. Because the physician removed multiple implants through separate incisions during an operative session, can I report code 20680 more than once ? Answer: You can report codes 20680 (Removal of implant; deep [e.g., buried wire, pin, screw, metal band, nail, rod or plate]) and 20680- 59 (Distinct procedural service) when the physician removes hardware...

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