Question

What is the purpose of using Modifier 50?

1) To denote a bilateral procedure
2) To denote a unilateral procedure
3) To denote a procedure performed on both sides
4) To denote a procedure performed on one side only

Answer 1

Modifier 50 is used in medical billing to signify that a procedure was performed on both sides of the body, known as a bilateral procedure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of using Modifier 50 is to denote a bilateral procedure, which means the procedure is performed on both sides of the body. For instance, if a surgeon operates on both knees during the same surgical session, Modifier 50 would be appended to the procedure code to indicate that the procedure was performed bilaterally. It is important not to confuse this with unilateral procedures, which are performed on one side only, or to use it when the procedure code inherently implies that the service is bilateral.