tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2003 Issue 4
You Be the Coder: Is 49085 Correct for Mesh Removal?
Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the box below for the answer.Question: How should I code for the removal of infected mesh from the abdominal wall? Is the code for removal of foreign body (49085) appropriate? Texas Subscriber Answer: No, 49085 (Removal of peritoneal foreign body from peritoneal cavity) is not appropriate (and refers to the peritoneum rather than the abdomen). To report removal of infected mesh in this location, report either 20680 (Removal of implant; deep [e.g., buried wire, pin, screw, metal band, nail, rod or plate]) or...
To read the full article, sign in and subscribe to tci General Surgery Coding Alert.
Thank you for choosing Find-A-Code, please Sign In to remove ads.