Wiki Co-Surgeon - Two surgeons one procedure separate CPT Codes

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Hello, I am new to coding Orthopedics and our providers have started working together on our SCS Implants.
Our Orthopedic Surgeon is performing the Laminectomy for implantation of neurostimulator paddles with code 63655, while our Pain Management provider places the SCS generator with code 63685. The providers are stating they should only have 1 opt note referencing each part.

My question is being that they are doing specifically separate parts (CPT Codes):
1. Do they need separate opt notes or is one okay?
2. Are they considered co-surgeons needing modifier 62 appended?
3. Should they each have a claim submitted with Modifier 62 appended?
ie Dr. A claim with only 63655-62 and Dr. B claim with only 63685-62?

Any help would be appreciated.
Thank you in advance.
 
This is not a Modifier 62 scenario.
1. If they intend to append Modifier 62 it would require them both reporting and being co-surgeons on the exact same CPT code(s).
In your example, they are performing two different CPT, it is not co-surgery. Modifier 62 would not be appropriate in your example.
2. You have to look up the CPTs to see if co-surgery is allowed when it is true co-surgery. https://www.cms.gov/medicare/physician-fee-schedule/search
3. See #1. Modifier 62 would require two claims each with the exact same CPTs, Dx, and Modifier 62.
The providers are advising you correctly. They would each dictate their part separately and you would bill them separately with the CPT they did only. No 62. I have not seen where it is all in one, single op note. If they are performing completely different CPTs, they should bill independently, each using the appropriate CPT code for their service. It also depends on if they assisted one another with the distinct part or not or if one came in did their part and left, then the other came in for his part. Also consider, if they are partners in the same group, I have seen some "back end" deals where one provider bills it and they figure it out on the back end at the accounting level when they help each other out. I have also had providers list the other as the assistant at surgery and go the 80 modifier route and do the "back end" thing too. The "deals" thing meant there was only one op note.

From the Medicare PFS:

Co-Surgeons (Modifier 62)

This field gives an indicator for services for which Medicare may pay 2 surgeons, each in a different specialty.
0 = Co-surgeons not allowed for this procedure.
1 = Co-surgeons could be paid. Medicare requires supporting documentation to prove medical necessity of 2 surgeons for the procedure.
2 = Co-surgeons allowed. Medicare doesn’t require documentation if you meet the 2 specialty requirements.
9 = Concept doesn’t apply.

References:
 
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