April 2000 page 10b
Coding Consultation
Digestive System, 44005 (Q&A)
Question
When extensive enterolysis of adhesions is performed during hernia repair, is it appropriate to report code 44005, Enterolysis (freeing of intestinal adhesion) (separate procedure), in addition to the hernia repair codes (49495-49659)?
AMA Comment
Code 44005 is designated as a separate procedure and is considered an integral component of the hernia repair codes. Therefore, code 44005 should not be reported separately. However, if the physician feels that the enterolysis performed was extensive and added significantly to the overall procedure, then modifier -22, Unusual procedural service, may be...
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