Brackets [] in the Alphabetic Index indicate alternative wording and the correct option is C.
Brackets in the Alphabetic Index indicate (c) alternative wording. They provide additional clarification or explanations of the terms they enclose, helping coders identify the most accurate code. These brackets may contain synonyms, nonessential modifiers, or inclusion terms, but their primary purpose is to provide alternative ways to express the same concept.
Here's a breakdown of the other options:
(a) Synonyms: While some bracketed terms are synonyms, they also offer alternative wording that might not be exact synonyms. For example, "Fracture [broken]" is a synonym, but "[Torn] ligament" is an alternative wording that expands the meaning of the term.
(b) Nonessential modifiers: Brackets can sometimes enclose nonessential modifiers, but not always. These modifiers clarify the term without affecting coding decisions. For example, "Pneumonia [involving the lung]" specifies the location but doesn't alter the code.
(d) Inclusion terms: Although brackets might occasionally encompass inclusion terms, their primary function is not to expand the meaning of the term. For example, "Cancer [excluding carcinoma in situ]" excludes a specific condition, but still focuses on the alternative wording of "cancer.
Therefore, while brackets often encompass synonyms, nonessential modifiers, and inclusion terms, their primary role is to offer alternative wording for the terms they enclose, assisting coders in finding the appropriate code.
So, the correct option is C.