CPC Surgical Coding Principles 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which CPT code range covers procedures on the musculoskeletal system?
- 20000–29999 (Correct answer)
- 30000–39999
- 10000–19999
- 40000–49999
Correct answer: 20000–29999
CPT codes 20000–29999 are designated for musculoskeletal system procedures in the Surgery section.
Question 2: What does the global surgical package typically include?
- Pre-op, intra-op, and post-op care (Correct answer)
- Only the surgical procedure itself
- Only post-operative visits
- Anesthesia services only
Correct answer: Pre-op, intra-op, and post-op care
The global surgical package includes preoperative evaluation, the surgical procedure, and routine postoperative care within the global period.
Question 3: When a surgeon performs two separate procedures during the same operative session, which modifier is most commonly appended?
- -51 (Correct answer)
- -59
- -22
- -25
Correct answer: -51
Modifier -51 indicates multiple procedures performed during the same session by the same provider.
Question 4: Which term describes the surgical entry into a body cavity without an incision using a scope?
- Endoscopy (Correct answer)
- Laparotomy
- Arthrotomy
- Thoracotomy
Correct answer: Endoscopy
Endoscopy refers to visualization of a body cavity or organ using a flexible or rigid scope inserted through a natural or artificial opening.
Question 5: A physician removes a 1.5 cm benign lesion from the back along with 0.3 cm margins. What is the excised diameter used for code selection?
- 2.1 cm (Correct answer)
- 1.5 cm
- 1.8 cm
- 0.6 cm
Correct answer: 2.1 cm
Excised diameter = lesion size + widest margin on all sides, so 1.5 + 0.3 + 0.3 = 2.1 cm.
Question 6: Which modifier indicates a procedure was performed on the right side of the body?
- -RT (Correct answer)
- -LT
- -50
- -52
Correct answer: -RT
Modifier -RT (Right side) is a HCPCS modifier used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body.
CPC Surgical Coding Principles 1
Which CPT code range covers procedures on the musculoskeletal system?