December 2001 page 7b
Coding Consultation
Surgery, Primary vs Secondary (Q&A)
Question
A number of places in the CPT book include language that indicates "primary" and "secondary." What is the difference between primary vs. secondary procedures?
AMA Comment
"Primary," as indicated in CPT book identifies the initial surgery for that body area. Secondary" identifies a redo or re-entry into the body area, and usually involves more effort to perform the procedure due to secondary effects such as formation of scars or adhesions. Therefore, the language in the codes denotes use for initial surgery or subsequent procedures...
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