Vascular and Interventional Radiology (VIR) is one of the most detailed and guideline-driven areas of medical coding. These procedures involve minimally invasive, image-guided treatments performed by interventional radiologists using catheters, wires, stents,...
Chest Tube Insertion in ER Medical Specialty: Emergency Room Reports Description: Chest tube insertion done by two physicians in the ER - spontaneous pneumothorax secondary to barometric trauma. PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSES: 1. Right spontaneous pneumothorax secondary...
Why the AAPC CPC Is Often Recommended Over the AHIMA CCA for New Medical Coders When individuals begin researching medical coding certifications, two entry-level options often come up: the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Certified Professional Coder...
Mastering Medical Coding: Preparing for the CPC Exam and Real-World Coding Medical coding education should do more than help students pass a certification exam. A strong training program should prepare students to think like coders, interpret medical documentation,...
Mononucleosis (Infectious Mononucleosis) – Coding Tips & Guidelines Mononucleosis, commonly referred to as “mono”, is a viral infection most often caused by the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). It is frequently seen in adolescents and young adults and is characterized by...
Biopsy - Skin Nevus Medical Specialty: Dermatology Description: Excisional biopsy of skin nevus and two-layer plastic closure. Trichloroacetic acid treatment to left lateral nasal skin 2.5 cm to treat actinic keratosis. PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSES: Left back skin...
How to Compare Medical Coding Courses (And Choose the Right One) Choosing a medical coding course is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your coding career. Not all programs are created equal, and focusing only on price or flashy perks (like free...
Initial vs. Sequela ICD-10-CM Coding: Guidelines, Differences, and Tips for Medical Coders Correctly identifying whether a condition is initial or a sequela is essential for accurate ICD-10-CM coding, proper claim submission, and CPC exam success. These terms are...
How to Use CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS eBooks During the AAPC CPC Exam Preparing for the CPC exam is one thing—knowing how to efficiently navigate your coding manuals during the exam is what truly determines your success. If you’re using eBooks instead of physical...
Completion Thyroidectomy Medical Specialty: Endocrinology Description: Completion thyroidectomy with limited right paratracheal node dissection. TITLE OF OPERATION: Completion thyroidectomy with limited right paratracheal node dissection. INDICATION FOR...