Question

What is the purpose of using modifier 50 in surgical coding?

Option 1: Indicate anatomic site in the plural.
Option 2: Identify multiple related surgical procedures in the same operative session.
Option 3: Specify surgical procedures performed in combination through different incisions.
Option 4: Highlight a combination of medical and surgical procedures in different sessions.

Answer 1

Modifier 50 is used to identify multiple related surgical procedures in the same operative session.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of using modifier 50 in surgical coding is to identify multiple related surgical procedures in the same operative session.

This modifier is used when a surgeon performs the same procedure on both the left and right side of the body or when multiple procedures are performed on the same anatomical site during the same surgery.

For example, if a surgeon removes a tumor from both breasts during a single procedure, modifier 50 would be used to indicate that both breasts were involved.