How To Use CPT Code 39599

CPT 39599 describes a procedure on the diaphragm that does not have a specific code. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 39599?

CPT 39599 is used to report procedures on the diaphragm that do not have a specific code available. It is used when the provider performs a procedure on the diaphragm that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes. This code allows for the reporting of unique procedures that do not have a specific code assigned to them.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 39599 is: ‘Use to report procedures in the diaphragm that do not have a specific code.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a procedure on the diaphragm that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 39599 can be used when there is a need to report a procedure on the diaphragm that does not have a specific code. This may occur when the procedure is unique or does not fit into any existing code category. The provider must ensure that there is no other specific code available before reporting CPT 39599.

5. When to use CPT code 39599

CPT code 39599 should be used when there is a procedure performed on the diaphragm that does not have a specific code available. It is important to note that this code should only be used when there is no other appropriate code that accurately describes the procedure. It is essential to review all available codes and guidelines before selecting CPT 39599.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 39599, the provider must ensure that the documentation includes the following:

• A detailed description of the procedure performed on the diaphragm
• An explanation of why there is no specific code available for the procedure
• Operative notes or other relevant documentation that provides a clear understanding of the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 39599, it is important to include a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code. The cover letter should also include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount. Additionally, the operative notes or other relevant documentation should be included to strengthen the claim and avoid a possible denial. Payers will consider claims with unlisted procedure codes on a case-by-case basis and determine payment based on the documentation provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 39599 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to ensure accurate reporting.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a unique procedure on the diaphragm to repair a tear that does not have a specific code available.
2. An interventional radiologist performs a procedure on the diaphragm to embolize a bleeding vessel that does not fit into any existing code category.
3. A gastroenterologist performs a procedure on the diaphragm to remove a foreign body that does not have a specific code assigned to it.
4. A thoracic surgeon performs a procedure on the diaphragm to treat a diaphragmatic hernia that does not fit into any existing code category.
5. An anesthesiologist performs a procedure on the diaphragm to administer a diaphragmatic nerve block that does not have a specific code available.
6. A pulmonologist performs a unique procedure on the diaphragm to treat diaphragmatic paralysis that does not fit into any existing code category.
7. A cardiothoracic surgeon performs a procedure on the diaphragm to repair a diaphragmatic defect that does not have a specific code assigned to it.
8. An interventional radiologist performs a procedure on the diaphragm to drain a diaphragmatic abscess that does not fit into any existing code category.
9. A general surgeon performs a unique procedure on the diaphragm to treat diaphragmatic endometriosis that does not have a specific code available.
10. An interventional radiologist performs a procedure on the diaphragm to treat a diaphragmatic tumor that does not fit into any existing code category.