tci Outpatient Facility Coding Alert - 2019 Issue Q3

Reader Question: Check With Provider for CT and Fluoro in Same Encounter

Question: I’m working on a fluoroscopic-guided lumbar puncture. At the beginning of the report, the radiologist states “computed tomography (CT) imaging was performed to choose a site for insertion of the needle.” The radiologist also documents fluoroscopic guidance using “a 22-gauge, 5” spinal needle” that was inserted into the thecal sac. Should I code this as CT-guided or fluoroscopic-guided? Nevada Subscriber Answer: Before making any coding considerations, you’re going to want to check with the radiologist to confirm the use of CT guidance in addition to fluoroscopic guidance. You’ll rarely, if ever, encounter...

To read the full article, sign in and subscribe to tci Outpatient Facility Coding Alert.

Thank you for choosing Find-A-Code, please Sign In to remove ads.