This page addresses follow-up questions and additional information pertinent to our webinar
The Outpatient Facility Coder’s Guide to Coding in 2024.
** The coding information and guidance are valid at the time of publishing. Learners are encouraged to research
subsequent official guidance in the areas associated with the topic as they can change rapidly.

Q:  What defines an integrated peripheral nerve stimulator?
A:  According to the CPT guidelines, there are a few things that indicate a device is an integrated device. These devices are externally powered. They are also defined as a single unit with a combination of electrode which contains a receiver and circuitry for power delivery. Integrated devices do not have a generator therefore they do not require a subcutaneous pocket.

Q:  Why was the code, 58580, for radiofrequency ablation of uterine fibroids added to the “Other procedures” section within the Female Genital System chapter?
A:  There are times when new CPT codes do not fall into any specific category so CPT creates a category for “other procedures”. This has been an issue with the radiofrequency endometrial ablations for a long time. Since these procedures do not fit with the excision codes, a determination was made to create a category of “other procedures” in the Female Genital System chapter.

Q:  If a patient had both a transfixation of the sacroiliac joint and an intra-articular device placed, can both codes 27278 and 27279 be reported together?
A:  This would be an uncommon situation, but yes, if both procedures are performed, both codes can be reported together.

Q:  Is it possible in the current CPT code set to capture the additional work of a lithotripsy performed on a non-coronary artery?
A:  There have been discussions regarding the appropriate addition of codes for lower extremity revascularization codes for many years and efforts are underway to revise these codes. So, code updates to capture this may be coming in the future.

Looking for additional information on this topic?

Jennifer Cayce, RHIT, CCS, CCS-P, CPC

Jennifer Cayce, RHIT, CCS, CCS-P, CPC

Director of Coding Quality & Compliance

As a Director of Coding Quality & Compliance, Jennifer brings over 20 years of health information management, auditing, and coding experience to Haugen Consulting Group. During her career, Jennifer has served as an inpatient and outpatient medical coder, lead coder, coding supervisor, auditor, and has developed training materials for multiple areas of HIM. Jennifer was integral in the development of web-based HIM education for coders, providers, clinical documentation improvement specialists, case managers, and patient access professionals. During her time as a coding supervisor, Jennifer experienced a high success rate when appealing RAC and other external audit findings. At the Haugen Consulting Group, Jennifer coordinates and leads the facility audit team and provides coding expertise and support to clients.

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