Chart Talk: Anesthesia Coding Conversations
Anesthesia Coding
Category: Uncategorized
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Hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) is one of the most complex and high-risk techniques used in cardiac and major vascular surgery. Because of its complexity—and its frequent confusion with hypothermia alone—it is also an area where anesthesia coding errors commonly occur.This post breaks down what HCA is, how it differs from hypothermia without arrest, and when ASA code 00563…
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Brachial Plexus – CPT 64415/64416 A brachial plexus nerve block is a regional anesthesia technique where local anesthetic is injected near the brachial plexus (a network of nerves for the arm) in the neck, above the collarbone, or armpit to numb the entire arm for surgery or to manage chronic pain, often as alternative to general. When…
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I’ve been asking myself a question lately—one that I think many educators, writers, and content creators ask at some point: Is this really helping anyone? I spend hours researching, writing, creating tip sheets, and sharing knowledge through this blog. Yet sometimes… it feels quiet.No comments.Little interaction.No visible feedback. And in those moments, it’s easy to…
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Post-operative pain blocks continue to be an area of confusion for many coders, auditors, and providers—particularly when it comes to what is separately reportable, which CPT codes apply, and what documentation is truly required to support billing. This multi-part series is designed to break post-op pain block coding down into clear, practical segments, beginning with a…
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The first week of a new year always carries a special kind of energy. It’s a pause and a push at the same time—a moment to reflect on where you’ve been and a chance to decide where you’re going. So let me ask you: How did your first week go?Did it feel calm and intentional—or…
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You know you’re capable.You know you can do it. And yet… you hesitate. Not because you lack the skills.Not because you haven’t put in the work.Not because you’re unprepared. So what’s really holding you back? Is it the fear of being told no?The fear of not being chosen?The quiet voice that whispers you’re “not good enough,”…
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Many people don’t realize that AAPC offers a Mentor/Mentee Program. I’m proud to say that I am signed up as an AAPC Mentor, and I would love to connect with and support others in achieving their goals—whether that’s certification guidance, career direction, or simply encouragement from someone who’s been there. Or maybe you would like…
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Instead of our traditional newsletter, I’m sharing a Coding Tip Sheet—a concise, one-two page resource focused on practical guidance, common pitfalls, and documentation reminders you can use right away. This approach allows us to deliver clear, actionable education in a format that’s easy to reference and save.
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The start of a new year is the perfect time to reset habits, refine processes, and strengthen the foundation of accurate anesthesia coding. When it comes to clean claims and compliant billing, one truth remains constant: CPT accuracy starts with ICD-10-CM. While anesthesia coding often focuses heavily on time, units, and modifiers, none of that…
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The first week of a new year always feels a little different, doesn’t it?A fresh calendar. New goals. New possibilities. As anesthesia coders, auditors, and educators, our field is constantly evolving—and staying current takes intention. So I want to hear from you: 👉 How do you plan to make 2026 your best year yet? Are you: There’s…
