AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2019 Issue 1; Ask the Editor

Laparoscopic Appendectomy Converted to Open Procedure

The patient was admitted for a laparoscopic appendectomy. Laparoscopy was carried out with findings of inflammation and fluid in the right lower quadrant with poor visualization of the tip of the cecum. A trocar was then placed in the left lower quadrant, where the appendix was found to be gangrenous, perforated, and acutely inflamed. Therefore, the decision was made to convert the procedure to open. What is the correct body part value for the laparoscopic portion of the procedure, lower GI tract, peritoneal cavity or gastrointestinal tract? ...

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