The code
| Code | Used for | Base units |
|---|---|---|
| 00790 | Intraperitoneal procedures in the upper abdomen, including laparoscopy | 7 |
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.
Upper vs lower abdomen
Anesthesia codes split the abdomen into upper and lower. Gallbladder, stomach and liver procedures are upper (00790). Appendix, colon and most gynecologic laparoscopy are lower (00840, 6 base units). Pick by where the surgery happens.
TAP blocks
A transversus abdominis plane block for pain after surgery may be separately billable if the surgeon asked for it and it wasn't the main anesthetic. See nerve block billing.
Converted to open
If the surgeon converts to an open procedure, the same anesthesia code usually still applies. Your time will be longer, and the record should show it.
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