Harry underwent a primary rhinoplasty two days ago, performed by Dr. Trent. Harry calls the office complaining of significant bleeding from the nose. Dr. Trent meets Harry at the hospital and performs an anterior simple nasal hemorrhage control. What modifier would the coder append to 30901?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Modifier 78 is used for a return to the operating room for a related procedure during the postoperative period. Since Harry's bleeding and subsequent procedure by Dr. Trent are related to the initial surgery and occurred during the postoperative period, modifier 78 is appropriate.

Harry Underwent a Primary Rhinoplasty Two Days Ago, Performed by Dr