Forum - Questions & Answers
which modifier?
I performed a colectomy for cancer. Then 1 month later (within the global period) I took the patient to the OR again, to place a portacath (for chemotherapy). Is this modifier 58 or 79? My thoughts...for 58 the portacath is related to the original condition (cancer)...for 79 the second procedure is not a result of the original procedure. So which is it? And how would it affect payment? Thanks as always.
which modifier
I hope someone with more surgical experience will answer.
Both modifier 58 and 79 start a new global period, so I don't think there is any financial difference.
It doesn't seem like the surgery is related (true the second procedure is for the same condition/diagnosis) bu the procedure itself is not related to the first.
I'd use modifier 79.
modifier
Modifier 79 is more appropriate. The second procedure is not related to recovery from the surgery itself.