When performing an endoscopy on a patient who is scheduled and prepped for a total colonoscopy, if the physician is unable to advance the scope beyond the splenic flexure due to unforeseen circumstances, modifier _______ is appended to the colonoscopy code.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Modifier 53 is used to indicate a procedure that is discontinued after anesthesia is administered due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient. This is applicable when a colonoscopy cannot be completed as planned.

When Performing an Endoscopy on a Patient Who Is Scheduled