February 2, 2016

Question:
I noticed that some codes in general surgery have “separate procedure” at the end of the code, for example: 44005, open enterolysis (lysis of adhesions). What does that mean?

Answer:
The “separate procedure” designation means that this procedure is not reported if it is performed at the same time or through the same exposure as a related, more comprehensive procedure. The separate procedure is reported only if it is

the only procedure performed or if it is unrelated or distinct from other procedure performed. So if adhesions are lysed as part of a larger procedure, for example a colectomy, only the colectomy is reported.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 02/2/16.