tci ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2002 Issue 3

How to Clean Up Debridement Coding Issues

In many cases, debridement performed in the emergency department will be included in whichever wound repair codes are assigned. However, there are instances when debridement may be reimbursed separately. To successfully report these codes, ED coders must understand when it is appropriate and what level of documentation is required. Cindy McMahan, CPC, an independent coding consultant based in Albany, Wisc., notes that CPT is specific about when debridement is included in a closure code. It can be reported separately only when the wound is grossly contaminated and prolonged cleansing is required, she says. An example is a barnyard...

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