A patient presents with worsening lower back pain after receiving an epidural injection intended to provide relief just one week ago. Upon examination, the provider determines the patient is a candidate for laminectomy at the L5-S1 facet. The provider discusses the procedure, including preoperative instructions and performs a complete physical examination to clear the patient for surgery. Which modifier will be appended to this E/M service?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Modifier 57 is used to indicate that the decision for surgery was made during the E/M service, making it distinct from the surgical procedure itself.

A Patient Presents with Worsening Lower Back Pain After Receiving