On Demand: Coding for Pulmonary Thrombectomies and Coronary Interventions-Webinar Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this webcast overview of pulmonary thrombectomies and coronary interventions, presenters Jolene Bruder and Tammy Barron delve into the coding complexities of these procedures. Jolene Bruder discusses pulmonary thrombectomies, starting with a review of pulmonary artery anatomy. The session clarifies that upon performing a right heart catheterization, the selective catheterization codes cannot be billed separately, emphasizing the hierarchy of billing codes. Furthermore, she explains that the lungs consist of two separate vascular families (right and left), impacting billing for thrombectomies beyond initial procedures. Bruder also explains the usage of ECOS catheters and how they can be billed alongside other interventions like thrombolysis. Tammy Barron shifts focus to percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), detailing different PCI codes based on coronary anatomy and interventions, such as stents, atherectomies, and drug-coated balloons. She highlights the significance of accurate doctor documentation for correct billing, particularly the necessity of detailing anatomical locations and overlapping lesions. Both presenters emphasize the necessity of understanding coding guidelines, particularly when dealing with layered and branching coronary procedures. Barron concludes with instances where mechanical thrombectomy is allowed, reinforcing that claims should clearly defend the additional effort and care involved in a procedure to justify codes like the modifier 22. Both experts stress the importance of clear and meticulous documentation as crucial for proper coding and subsequent reimbursement.

Keywords

pulmonary thrombectomies

coronary interventions

coding complexities

Jolene Bruder

Tammy Barron

pulmonary artery anatomy

right heart catheterization

billing codes

ECOS catheters

percutaneous coronary interventions

PCI codes

doctor documentation

modifier 22