Common codes
| Code | Used for | Base units |
|---|---|---|
| 00120 | Procedures on the external, middle and inner ear | 5 |
| 00160 | Procedures on the nose and accessory sinuses | 5 |
| 00170 | Intraoral procedures, including tonsillectomy | 5 |
Base units shown are the standard values most payers use. Check your payer and the current year's CMS base unit file before relying on them.
Children
- Some payers pay extra for very young patients through the extreme age qualifying circumstance (99100).
- Specific codes exist for some procedures in younger children. Check the code descriptions for age limits.
Ear tubes
Ear tube placements are very short. If a payer pays by time, those few minutes matter. Record them exactly.
This article is general information, not billing, legal or tax advice. Payer rules change; always check current guidance.
Sources
- CMS: Medicare Claims Processing Manual, Chapter 12 (Anesthesia)
- Maryland Workers' Compensation Commission: anesthesia base unit values