tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2009 Issue 12

Reader Questions: Choose Modifier 59 in 3 Circumstances

Question: When I code for a bilateral mastectomy, I use modifier 50. But in some cases the mastectomy done on each side is different so the bilateral goes out the door. I am coding for a modified radical 19307 on the left and a simple 19303 on the right. Do I use a modifier 51 or modifier 59 for the second procedure? Minnesota Subscriber Answer: Modifier 59 (Distinct procedural service) is the modifier that will help you out here because it tells the payer that the procedure was performed in a different location (the other breast). You will definitely...

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