CPC Surgical Coding Principles 3

Question 1

Which CPT code range covers digestive system procedures?

Accepted Answer

40000–49999

Answer

50000–59999

Answer

60000–69999

Answer

30000–39999

Question 2

When coding an endoscopy, which principle applies if the scope is advanced beyond a specific anatomical landmark?

Accepted Answer

Report the code for the most distal site reached

Answer

Report all anatomical sites examined

Answer

Report only the initial insertion site

Answer

Report separate codes for each segment examined

Question 3

What does modifier -62 indicate?

Accepted Answer

Two surgeons each performed distinct portions of a procedure

Answer

A procedure was performed bilaterally

Answer

An assistant surgeon was present

Answer

A resident physician assisted

Question 4

Which element is NOT typically included in the global surgical package for major surgery?

Accepted Answer

Treatment of unrelated conditions during the global period

Answer

Intraoperative services

Answer

Uncomplicated follow-up care for 90 days

Answer

Preoperative evaluation on the day of surgery

Question 5

A surgeon performs a laparoscopic appendectomy converted to an open procedure. How should this be coded?

Accepted Answer

Report only the open appendectomy code

Answer

Report both the laparoscopic and open codes

Answer

Report the laparoscopic code with modifier -52

Answer

Report the open code with modifier -22

Question 6

What is the purpose of modifier -58 in surgical coding?

Accepted Answer

Staged or related procedure by the same physician during the postoperative period

Answer

Unplanned return to OR for an unrelated procedure

Answer

Procedure performed by a different physician

Answer

Decision for surgery made at the same visit