Coding Appendix procedures
Appendix procedures CPT(R) 44900 is coded for Incision and drainage of an appendiceal abscess through an open incision. CPT?s parenthetical note says to use 49406 Image-guided fluid collection drainage by catheter (eg, abscess, hematoma, seroma, lymphocele, cyst); peritoneal or retroperitoneal, percutaneous for a percutaneous image-guided drainage by catheter of an appendiceal abscess.
Appendix procedures reporting as an Open Approach:
? CPT code 44950 is coded for an appendectomy performed through an open approach.
? The operative note must be read carefully because if the appendix is ruptured with an abscess or generalized peritonitis, then code 44960 Appendectomy; for ruptured appendix with abscess or generalized peritonitis will be selected for reporting.
Appendix procedures reporting as an Add-on Code:
Report add-on code +44955 Appendectomy; when done for indicated purpose at the time of other major procedure (not as separate procedure), if an appendectomy is performed using an open approach for an indicated purpose at the time of a major procedure.
Appendix procedures reporting as a Lap Approach:
There are only two codes to choose from, when it comes to a laparoscopic approach.
The first is 44970 Laparoscopic, surgical, appendectomy.
And the second is, 44979 Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, appendix.