Created Jun 2016
Reviewed Dec 2019
Query
What procedure code should be assigned for division of lung adhesions via thoracotomy?
Patient was admitted for coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and intraoperatively was found to have adhesions of the lung which were divided.
Suggestions are:
90166-00 [549] Division of pleural adhesions
or
38456-02 [558] Other open procedures on lung or pleura
Response
90166-00 [549] Division of pleural adhesions is the most appropriate procedure code to assign for division of lung adhesions following ICD-10-AM Alphabetic Index: Division/adhesions/pleura/open.
This code assignment has been confirmed following consultation with a cardiothoracic surgeon.