CPT code 34846 is used for procedures involving the placement of two prosthetic devices in the visceral and infrarenal abdominal area.
CPT code 34846 is used to describe a specific surgical procedure involving the placement of two prosthetic devices in the visceral and infrarenal abdominal aorta. This code is typically utilized during endovascular repair procedures where the surgeon places grafts or stents to support or replace sections of the abdominal aorta, particularly below the renal arteries. The use of two prosthetic devices indicates a more complex procedure, often necessary to ensure proper blood flow and structural integrity in patients with aneurysms or other vascular conditions affecting this critical area of the body.
For CPT code 34846, which involves a complex procedure related to vascular surgery, several modifiers may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure. Here is a list of potential modifiers that could be used:
1. Modifier 22 - Increased Procedural Services: This modifier is used when the work required to perform the procedure is substantially greater than typically required. This could be due to factors such as increased complexity or additional time spent.
2. Modifier 51 - Multiple Procedures: If multiple procedures are performed during the same surgical session, this modifier indicates that more than one procedure was carried out.
3. Modifier 52 - Reduced Services: This modifier is applicable when a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified healthcare professional.
4. Modifier 53 - Discontinued Procedure: Used when a procedure is started but discontinued due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient.
5. Modifier 62 - Two Surgeons: When two surgeons work together as primary surgeons performing distinct parts of a procedure, this modifier is used to indicate their collaborative effort.
6. Modifier 66 - Surgical Team: This is used when a complex procedure requires the expertise of several physicians, often from different specialties, working together as a team.
7. Modifier 76 - Repeat Procedure by Same Physician: If the same procedure is repeated by the same physician, this modifier is used to indicate the repetition.
8. Modifier 77 - Repeat Procedure by Another Physician: This modifier is used when a procedure is repeated by a different physician.
9. Modifier 78 - Unplanned Return to the Operating/Procedure Room by the Same Physician Following Initial Procedure for a Related Procedure During the Postoperative Period: This indicates an unplanned return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period.
10. Modifier 79 - Unrelated Procedure or Service by the Same Physician During the Postoperative Period: Used when a procedure performed during the postoperative period is unrelated to the original procedure.
11. Modifier 80 - Assistant Surgeon: This modifier is used when an assistant surgeon is required to help with the procedure.
12. Modifier 81 - Minimum Assistant Surgeon: Used when an assistant surgeon is required for a minimal portion of the procedure.
13. Modifier 82 - Assistant Surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): This is used when an assistant surgeon is necessary because a qualified resident surgeon is not available.
14. Modifier 99 - Multiple Modifiers: When two or more modifiers are necessary to describe the service provided, this modifier indicates the use of multiple modifiers.
The choice of modifier(s) depends on the specific details of the procedure performed and the circumstances surrounding it. Proper use of modifiers is crucial for accurate billing and reimbursement.
The CPT code 34846 is subject to reimbursement by Medicare, but its coverage and payment are determined by several factors, including the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) and the policies set forth by the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) in your specific region.
The MPFS provides a comprehensive list of fees that Medicare uses to reimburse physicians and other healthcare providers for services rendered. However, the final decision on reimbursement for CPT code 34846 may vary based on local coverage determinations (LCDs) and national coverage determinations (NCDs) established by the MAC.
It is essential for healthcare providers to verify the specific guidelines and reimbursement rates with their regional MAC to ensure compliance and accurate billing.
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