Certified Professional Coder Flashcards

Which modifier is appended to a CPT code to indicate a procedure was performed on the left side of the body?

Answer: Modifier -LT

Modifier -LT (Left side) is used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body.

What ICD-10-CM placeholder character is used to keep a code at its required number of digits when a character is not applicable?

Answer: X

The letter 'X' is the placeholder character in ICD-10-CM used to allow for future expansion and to keep codes at required digit counts.

A surgeon performs a laparoscopic cholecystectomy that is converted to an open procedure. Which modifier should be reported?

Answer: Modifier -53

Modifier -53 is used when a surgical procedure is discontinued after the patient has been prepared and anesthesia administered, which applies to procedures converted mid-way.

In the CPT manual, what does the triangle symbol (▲) preceding a code indicate?

Answer: A revised code description

The triangle symbol (▲) in the CPT manual indicates that the code's description has been revised from the previous year.

Which section of the CPT manual contains codes for Evaluation and Management services?

Answer: Section 99202–99499

Evaluation and Management (E/M) codes are found in the 99202–99499 range within the CPT manual.

What is the correct way to sequence ICD-10-CM codes when a patient has both a coexisting condition and a manifestation?

Answer: Etiology code first, manifestation code second

ICD-10-CM convention requires the etiology (underlying cause) to be sequenced first, followed by the manifestation code.

A patient is seen for a condition that is a late effect of a previous injury. Which type of code must be assigned?

Answer: A sequela code (7th character S)

In ICD-10-CM, the 7th character 'S' designates a sequela, which is a late effect or complication resulting from a prior injury.