CPC Surgical Coding Principles

Question 1

Which CPT code range covers procedures on the musculoskeletal system?

Accepted Answer

20000–29999

Answer

CPT codes 20000–29999 are designated for musculoskeletal system procedures in the Surgery section.

Question 2

What does the global surgical package typically include?

Accepted Answer

Pre-op, intra-op, and post-op care

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

-51

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

Endoscopy

Answer

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?

Accepted Answer

2.1 cm

Answer

Excised diameter = lesion size + widest margin on all sides, so 1.5 + 0.3 + 0.3 = 2.1 cm.

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