New laparoscopic code on the way

Q What code should I use for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy? Code 58180 appears to be intended for the abdominal approach.

A CPT rules clearly forbid billing a laparoscopic procedure using a code for the abdominal approach. This leaves you with 2 options: Either use

• existing laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy codes (58550– 58554) with modifier –52 added to denote a reduced service because the cervix was not removed, or
  
• unlisted laparoscopy code 58579.
  

ACOG is working on new codes for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy.

Ms. Witt, former program manager in the Department of Coding and Nomenclature at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, is an independent coding and documentation consultant. Reimbursement Adviser reflects the most commonly accepted interpretations of CPT-4 and ICD-9-CM coding. When in doubt on a coding or billing matter, check with your individual payer.

Q What code should I use for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy? Code 58180 appears to be intended for the abdominal approach.

A CPT rules clearly forbid billing a laparoscopic procedure using a code for the abdominal approach. This leaves you with 2 options: Either use

• existing laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy codes (58550– 58554) with modifier –52 added to denote a reduced service because the cervix was not removed, or
  
• unlisted laparoscopy code 58579.
  

ACOG is working on new codes for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy.

Ms. Witt, former program manager in the Department of Coding and Nomenclature at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, is an independent coding and documentation consultant. Reimbursement Adviser reflects the most commonly accepted interpretations of CPT-4 and ICD-9-CM coding. When in doubt on a coding or billing matter, check with your individual payer.

Q What code should I use for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy? Code 58180 appears to be intended for the abdominal approach.

A CPT rules clearly forbid billing a laparoscopic procedure using a code for the abdominal approach. This leaves you with 2 options: Either use

• existing laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy codes (58550– 58554) with modifier –52 added to denote a reduced service because the cervix was not removed, or
  
• unlisted laparoscopy code 58579.
  

ACOG is working on new codes for laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy.

Ms. Witt, former program manager in the Department of Coding and Nomenclature at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, is an independent coding and documentation consultant. Reimbursement Adviser reflects the most commonly accepted interpretations of CPT-4 and ICD-9-CM coding. When in doubt on a coding or billing matter, check with your individual payer.