2025 CPT code 44950

Open appendectomy.

If the appendectomy is incidental to other intra-abdominal surgery and not performed for a specific medical indication related to the appendix, modifier 52 may be appended to 44950 to indicate reduced services. If the appendectomy is performed for a medically necessary reason during other major surgery, use add-on code 44955.

Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 52 can be used to indicate reduced services if the procedure is less extensive than usual. Other modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the surgery.

Medical necessity for 44950 is established by the diagnosis of appendicitis, typically supported by clinical findings and imaging studies demonstrating inflammation of the appendix.Delaying appendectomy can lead to rupture and peritonitis, increasing morbidity and mortality.

The surgeon prepares the patient, administers anesthesia, makes the incision, removes the inflamed appendix, cleans the surgical area, controls bleeding, and closes the incision.

IMPORTANT For laparoscopic appendectomy, use 44970. For incidental appendectomy during other intra-abdominal surgery, consider modifier 52 with 44950 or use add-on code +44955 if performed for a medically indicated reason during another major procedure.

In simple words: This code represents the surgical removal of the appendix through an open incision in the belly. It's done to treat appendicitis, when the appendix gets infected and swollen.

Surgical removal of the appendix via an open incision.This procedure is performed to treat appendicitis, the inflammation of the appendix. The procedure involves making an incision in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, locating and removing the inflamed appendix.

Example 1: A 25-year-old male presents with acute right lower quadrant pain, fever, and elevated white blood cell count, indicative of appendicitis. An open appendectomy (44950) is performed., A 40-year-old female undergoes an open appendectomy (44950) after imaging reveals an inflamed appendix., A teenager presents with suspected appendicitis, and during an open exploration, the appendix is found to be inflamed and is removed (44950).

Documentation should include the operative report detailing the procedure, findings, and any complications. Preoperative diagnoses, signs, symptoms, and laboratory results supporting the diagnosis of appendicitis should be included. Postoperative care instructions should also be documented.

** It is important to distinguish between incidental appendectomy and appendectomy performed for a separate medical indication during another procedure.Accurate coding ensures appropriate reimbursement.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:General Surgery
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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