March 30, 2023

Question:
I have a question about glossectomies. When coding a glossectomy what needs to be documented? My physician just states in the operative report he performed a glossectomy. Is that enough?

Answer:
The answer to your question is no. Glossectomy codes (41120-41150) require removal of a portion or all of the tongue not just the lesion. You must document what portion or how much of the tongue is removed and tongue tissue removal. If only a lesion is removed see CPT code(s) 41112-41114.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 03/30/23.