On Demand: Coding for Heart Transplants, VADs and ECMO-Webinar Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In the webinar, the presenters provided an in-depth analysis of coding for heart transplants, ventricular assist devices (VADs), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMOs). They emphasized the importance of using the correct codes for these complex procedures and discussed the specifics of coding for different types of heart transplants, including heart and lung transplants. They highlighted the importance of proper documentation in order to ensure reimbursement for these procedures.<br /><br />The presenters also discussed various types of VADs, such as the HeartMate 3, and explained the differences between intracorporeal and extracorporeal setups. They detailed the coding for both open and percutaneous VAD procedures and the importance of using modifiers and unlisted codes when necessary. The distinction between different types of devices, like Impellas and actual VADs, was emphasized to avoid coding errors.<br /><br />Additionally, the session covered ECMO coding, which involves coding for cannulation, initiation, daily management, repositioning, and eventual removal of ECMO support. The presenters provided guidelines on scenarios that require the use of specific codes and stressed the importance of clear documentation, particularly on initiation and management, to ensure accurate billing.<br /><br />Finally, they addressed questions from the audience about specific coding scenarios and clarified the use of modifiers and other related coding complexities, providing insight into both standard practices and special cases within their systems.

Keywords

heart transplants

ventricular assist devices

extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

coding procedures

documentation

HeartMate 3

intracorporeal setup

extracorporeal setup

modifiers

unlisted codes

ECMO management

billing accuracy