tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2001 Issue 8

Reader Question: Modifier -78 Requires Return to OR

Question: Please clarify whether modifier -78 can be used only in a hospital. We sometimes perform a procedure in the office, such as an I&D of postoperative seroma, and -- a few days later -- perform another I&D for the same reason, appending modifier -78. Is this correct?Michigan Subscriber  Answer: Modifier -78 (return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period) should be used only if the patient is returned to the operating room (OR). If the procedure was performed in the office, modifier -78 should not be used, says Kathy...

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