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In the 2026 CPT code set, the American Medical Association (AMA) has enacted one of the most sweeping updates to cardiovascular procedural coding in years — completely redesigning the coding framework for both lower extremity revascularization and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). These changes address the limitations of legacy codes, better align coding with current clinical … Read more
The Nervous System Surgery section of the 2026 CPT code set sees a meaningful expansion with 11 new codes and several revisions designed to reflect minimally invasive procedures, image-guided decompressions, advanced device surgeries, and neuromodulation systems — signaling the ongoing evolution of neurosurgery and peripheral nerve procedures. AGS Health 1. New Percutaneous Lumbar Decompression Codes … Read more
New Musculoskeletal Surgical Codes a) Osteotomy with Intramedullary Lengthening Devices One of the most notable additions in 2026 is a new CPT code for tibial osteotomy with insertion of an externally controlled intramedullary lengthening device: CPT 27713 — Osteotomy(ies), tibia (including fibula when performed), unilateral, with insertion of an externally controlled intramedullary lengthening device; including … Read more
The CPT® 2026 code set introduces some of the most significant cardiovascular surgery revisions in years, reflecting advances in interventional techniques, procedural complexity, and the need for clearer procedural classification. These updates affect lower extremity revasculariazation, percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), thoracic aortic repairs, and coronary lesion reporting — all of which are high-volume in cardiovascular … Read more
Every year, CPT codes are updated, and 2026 is a big one. There are 418 total changes: 288 new codes 46 revised codes 84 deleted codes All these changes start January 1, 2026, so coders must update documentation, charge capture, and payer rules to avoid claim denials. Think of CPT updates like a new rulebook—you … Read more
CMS released the January 2026 HCPCS Level II code files on November 24, 2025. These alphanumeric codes are used to bill for supplies, drugs, biologicals, DME, and certain services not captured by CPT® codes. The Q1 2026 update includes important changes that all coders and billing teams need to load into their systems before January … Read more
1. Patient & Procedure Verification ✔ Correct patient (name, DOB, MRN)✔ Date of surgery✔ Primary surgeon + assistants (PA, NP, RNFA, resident)✔ Preoperative diagnosis✔ Postoperative diagnosis✔ Procedures performed (as documented in the op note header)✔ Compare header vs body → Code the body if there is disagreement 2. Approach & Surgical Access ✔ Open, percutaneous, … Read more
Significant changes are coming to CPT® coding for minimally invasive sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion. As new implant designs and techniques have entered the market, coders have struggled to match procedures to the correct CPT® codes. After years of discussion, the AMA CPT® Editorial Panel finalized new guidance and revised descriptors at the May 2025 meeting, … Read more
Question 1 Which of the following statements is correct regarding the reporting of a telemedicine service that occurs on the same day as an in-person E/M service? A. The telemedicine service should always be reported separately with its own E/M code. B. The telemedicine service must be combined with the in-person E/M service, and the … Read more
Question 1 A licensed clinical social worker is called into a group home where a resident is experiencing a mental crisis and threatening to harm himself and others. The social worker assesses the resident, performs a mental status exam, documents the resident’s history, addresses his needs, and creates a safety plan. The social worker coordinates … Read more