Final answer:
A transthoracic mediastinotomy, coded as 39010, does not necessarily include either a transthoracic or median sternotomy, as they are distinct procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
It would be false to say that the procedure coded as 39010, transthoracic mediastinotomy, necessarily includes either a transthoracic or median sternotomy. A transthoracic mediastinotomy is a specific procedure that may indeed involve access to the thoracic cavity which contains structures like the superior mediastinum, pleural cavity, and pericardial cavity. However, this does not automatically mean that a sternotomy (cutting through the breastbone) is included in this procedure. These are separate procedures and when performed may require individual coding depending on the extent and necessity as dictated by the patient's condition and the surgical approach.