CPC Surgical Coding Principles 2

Question 1

What is the correct code sequence when a surgeon performs an unplanned return to the OR during the global period?

Accepted Answer

Append modifier -78

Answer

Append modifier -79

Answer

Append modifier -76

Answer

No modifier needed

Question 2

Which CPT subsection is used to report wound repair involving the use of local anesthesia, chemical or electrocauterization, thermocauterization, and/or adhesive strips?

Accepted Answer

Simple repair

Answer

Intermediate repair

Answer

Complex repair

Answer

Layered closure

Question 3

When coding an open fracture treatment, what does the CPT definition of 'open treatment' mean?

Accepted Answer

The fracture site is surgically opened for visualization

Answer

The skin overlying the fracture is broken

Answer

The fracture fragments are displaced

Answer

The patient has a compound injury

Question 4

Which modifier is appended when a procedure is discontinued after anesthesia was administered but before the surgical incision?

Accepted Answer

-53

Answer

-52

Answer

-73

Answer

-74

Question 5

In the Surgery section, what is a 'separate procedure' designation?

Accepted Answer

A procedure not billable when performed with a related, more comprehensive service

Answer

A procedure always billed independently

Answer

A procedure requiring a different surgeon

Answer

A procedure requiring prior authorization

Question 6

What does unbundling refer to in surgical coding?

Accepted Answer

Billing component parts of a procedure separately when a comprehensive code exists

Answer

Combining two procedures into one code

Answer

Reporting a lesser procedure than performed

Answer

Using multiple modifiers on a single claim