February 2006 page 16-end
Laparoscopic Procedures, 49659, 49329, 60699, 50549 (Q&A)
Question
If a laparoscopic procedure is performed
but there is not a CPT code that
accurately describes the procedure, would
it be appropriate to report the corresponding
open procedure if one exists?
AMA Comment
If a laparoscopic procedure is
performed but no CPT code accurately describes
the laparoscopic procedure, the corresponding
open procedure code should not be reported.
Instead, the appropriate unlisted laparoscopic
code should be reported. An open procedure
code should never be reported to describe a procedure
that was performed laparoscopically.
Laparoscopic Procedures, 49659, 49329...
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