When coding a coronary artery bypass graft, which fact must be reported?

When coding a coronary artery bypass graft, which fact must be reported?

• A. The surgeon's initials
• B. The hospital room number
• C. The number of bypasses
• D. The patient’s marital status

Answer: (C)

The essential detail to report when coding a coronary artery bypass graft is the number of bypass grafts performed. The CPT code for CABG is determined by how many grafts were placed, with additional factors like on-pump versus off-pump influencing the exact code selection. This count comes from the operative report and drives the correct code and reimbursement. Items such as the surgeon’s initials, the hospital room number, or the patient’s marital status are not used in determining CABG codes.

The essential detail to report when coding a coronary artery bypass graft is the number of bypass grafts performed. The CPT code for CABG is determined by how many grafts were placed, with additional factors like on-pump versus off-pump influencing the exact code selection. This count comes from the operative report and drives the correct code and reimbursement. Items such as the surgeon’s initials, the hospital room number, or the patient’s marital status are not used in determining CABG codes.