Banner

Coding Unusually Complex Procedures

Article

I performed rather extensive brachial plexus nerve conduction testing on a badly injured patient. Can I use 99354 to indicate that it took much longer than usual or is that code only for use with E&M procedures?

Question: I performed rather extensive brachial plexus nerve conduction testing on a badly injured patient. Can I use 99354 to indicate that it took much longer than usual or is that code only for use with E&M procedures?

Answer: Emily Hill says CPT instructions under code 99354 indicate that it should only be used with E&M services. For procedural services that require additional time or effort, use the modifier -22 (unusual procedural service), and append it to the appropriate procedure code. Most payers require that documentation demonstrating the unusual nature of the service be submitted with the claim.

Recent Videos
Using AI agents
Using AI agents
Stephen A. Dickens, JD, MAEd, FACMPE, on strategic planning in times of uncertainty.
Using AI agents
Stephen A. Dickens, JD, MAEd, FACMPE, VP of medical practice services at SVMIC, shares a success story of strategic planning in action.
Stephen A. Dickens, JD, MAEd, FACMPE, VP of medical practice services at SVMIC, identifies warning signs that your practice needs a new plan
© 2025 MJH Life Sciences

All rights reserved.