CPT Resolves Coding Dilemma

The American Medical Association has recently updated its CPT® 2012 guidelines to correct a problem in the guidelines applicable to the instrumentation, intervertebral device, and bone graft codes. As add-on codes, the instrumentation, intervertebral device, and bone graft codes must have an applicable “parent” or primary procedure code. CPT® 2012 did not originally list 22633 or 22634 as an applicable parent or primary procedure code for the add-on codes.

The correction issued on May 23, 2012, will allow the instrumentation, intervertebral device, and bone graft codes to be reported with 22633 and 22634. The change will be included in the 2013 CPT codebook. A link to the errata pdf can be found in the online version of this article; the specific reference to the guidelines change is on pages 4–6 of the document.

New AAOS coding resources
The AAOS has a new webpage dedicated to coding policy and reimbursement. Visit www.aaos.org/coding for answers to frequently asked questions, articles on coding issues, information on payment policies and coding course information.

For specific inquiries, AAOS members can use the “Submit a Coding Question” link (login required). All inquiries will be reviewed by AAOS staff, members of the AAOS Coding, Coverage, and Reimbursement Committee, and outside coding experts. Written responses will be provided.

Additional Resource:
http://www.ama-assn.org/resources/doc/cpt/cpt-corrections.pdf

AAOS Now
July 2012 Issue
http://www.aaos.org/news/aaosnow/jul12/managing10.asp