2025 CPT code 59620

Cesarean delivery only, following attempted vaginal delivery after previous cesarean delivery.

Use modifier 22 (Increased Procedural Services) if the work required is substantially greater than usual. Do not report this code with global maternity care codes.

Modifiers may be applicable. Modifier 22 may be used for increased procedural services.

Medical necessity for this code is established by the failure of the attempted VBAC, necessitating a cesarean delivery for the safety of the mother and/or fetus.

The physician manages the attempted VBAC labor, including monitoring, evaluation, and decision-making. When the VBAC attempt is unsuccessful, the physician performs the C-section, including incision, delivery, and closure.The physician also provides immediate postpartum care.

IMPORTANT For a successful VBAC, use codes 59610-59614. For elective C-sections, use 59510, 59514, or 59515.If the physician provides inpatient postpartum care separately, use 99238 or 99239. For global delivery and postpartum care, use 59622.

In simple words: This code is used when a woman who has had a C-section before tries to deliver vaginally (VBAC) but needs a C-section instead. It covers the C-section itself and immediate care afterward, but not prenatal or later postpartum care.

This code reports a cesarean delivery performed after an attempted vaginal birth following a previous cesarean section.It includes the surgical delivery of the fetus and placenta, as well as immediate postpartum care.It does not include antepartum or postpartum care beyond the immediate post-delivery period.

Example 1: A patient with a prior C-section attempts a VBAC.Labor progresses, but the fetus fails to descend. A decision is made to proceed with a C-section. Code 59620 is reported., A patient with a history of one previous cesarean delivery attempts a vaginal birth. During labor, fetal distress is noted.The decision is made to perform a cesarean delivery. Code 59620 is reported., A patient undergoing a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) experiences uterine rupture.An emergency C-section is performed. Code 59620 is reported.

Documentation should include details of the attempted VBAC, including the reason for its failure (e.g., failure to progress, fetal distress), operative report of the cesarean delivery, and immediate postpartum care provided.

** As of today's date, December 1, 2024, this information is current. Remember to always refer to current CPT coding guidelines for the most accurate information.

  • Revenue Code: P1G
  • Global Days : Global Days: This code has a global period assigned. Information incomplete.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital
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