CPT code 41145 is a medical billing code for tongue removal surgery performed in the neck area.
CPT code 41145 is for a surgical procedure involving the removal of the tongue, specifically in the context of neck surgery. This code is used to document and bill for the surgical excision of the tongue, which may be necessary due to conditions such as cancer or other significant pathologies affecting the tongue. The procedure typically involves careful dissection and removal of the tongue tissue, and it may also include adjacent structures depending on the extent of the disease. Proper coding with CPT 41145 ensures accurate reimbursement and reflects the complexity of the surgical intervention performed.
When billing for CPT code 41145, which pertains to tongue removal neck surgery, the following modifiers may be applicable:
1. Modifier 22 - Increased Procedural Services: Use this modifier if the procedure required significantly more work than typically required. This could be due to factors such as increased intensity, time, technical difficulty, or severity of the patient's condition.
2. Modifier 51 - Multiple Procedures: Apply this modifier if multiple procedures were performed during the same surgical session. This helps in indicating that the primary procedure was accompanied by additional procedures.
3. Modifier 59 - Distinct Procedural Service: Use this modifier to indicate that the procedure was distinct or independent from other services performed on the same day. This is particularly useful when the procedures are not typically reported together but are appropriate under the circumstances.
4. Modifier 62 - Two Surgeons: If two surgeons were required to perform the procedure due to its complexity, this modifier should be used to indicate the collaborative effort.
5. Modifier 80 - Assistant Surgeon: Apply this modifier if an assistant surgeon was necessary to complete the procedure. This indicates that another surgeon assisted the primary surgeon during the operation.
6. Modifier 81 - Minimum Assistant Surgeon: Use this modifier if an assistant surgeon was present but only provided minimal assistance during the procedure.
7. Modifier 82 - Assistant Surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): This modifier is used when an assistant surgeon is necessary because a qualified resident surgeon was not available.
8. Modifier AS - Physician Assistant, Nurse Practitioner, or Clinical Nurse Specialist services for assistant at surgery: This modifier is used when a non-physician provider assists in the surgery.
Each of these modifiers serves a specific purpose and should be used appropriately to ensure accurate billing and reimbursement for the services provided.
The CPT code 41145 is reimbursed by Medicare, but it is essential to verify the specific reimbursement details through the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS). The MPFS provides a comprehensive list of services covered by Medicare, including the associated payment rates.
Additionally, reimbursement can vary based on the region, as Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) are responsible for processing claims and setting local coverage determinations. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the relevant MAC for your area to confirm the exact reimbursement rates and any specific coverage criteria for CPT code 41145.
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