FOS Coding Corner

Coding Corner Sponsored by Karen Zupko & Associates, Inc.

These Frequently Asked Questions are provided to assist you with common orthopaedic coding issues. Check back monthly for updated topics.

This Month's Topic:
26600 Reported with Three Units

Can CPT c ode 26600 be reported with a three in the units box?

It would be appropriate to report 26600, Closed treatment of metacarpal fracture, single; without manipulation, each bone with a three in the units box. However, we do not recommend the use of units in hand cases unless the payor requires units in which you would submit the claim as follows:
26600 3 units and the charge is tripled

Or we prefer and recommend the following format if the payor allows line item posting:
26600
26600-59
26600-59

If the payor rejects the third code as a duplicate, the practice will know how to appeal. If the payor requires the code submitted as units on one line, the practice needs to be vigilant about watching to ensure the payor reimbursed on all three procedures.

Coding Corner Archive

Just click on a topic below to view the discussion:

Laminectomy with Microsurgical Technique (October 2008)
Navigation Assisted Procedures (February 2008)
Fractures (January 2008)
Instrumentation Removal and Reinsertion (July 2007)
Coding Existing Problem and New Problem on Same Visit (June 2007)
"CX-rays and "minimum views" (May 2007)
CPT Code Usage at the Beginning/End of a Year (January 2007)
Code for Core Decompression of the Hip (November 2006)
Hallux Valgus with a Chevron Metatarsal Osteotomy (August 2006)
Removal and Re-insertion of Spacer (May 2006)
Posterolateral Fusion L1-L5 (April 2006)
Modifier 62 (October 2005)
Coding Arthroscopic Elbow Surgery (July 2005)
Visit Included in Global Surgical Package or Not? (May 2005)
Cortizone injections (April 2005)
Athletic Trainers and Incident-To Physical Therapy (March 2005)
Coding for Range of Motion, 95851 (February 2005)
Conscious Sedation—Can I bill or not? Will the payors reimburse me? (January 2005)
New vs. Established Patient (December 2004)
Consults vs. IP Admission (November 2004)
Skeletal Traction Application Prior to Definitive Fracture Management (October 2004)
NPPS as Assistants at Surgery (September 2004)
Minimally Invasive Procedures (August 2004)
Modifier 51 versus 59 (July 2004)

Send an Issue or Question for Future Discussion

Email your orthopaedic coding issues and questions to fraser@fos-society.com