Summary & Overview
CPT 01480: Anesthesia for Lower Leg Bone Surgery
CPT code 01480 represents anesthesia services for lower leg bone surgery, a critical component in orthopedic procedures requiring pain management and patient safety. This code is widely recognized across the United States and is utilized in facility settings such as hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. The publication examines coverage and policy considerations from major national payers, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, and UnitedHealthcare.
Readers will gain insight into the clinical context of lower leg bone surgeries, typical billing practices, and relevant modifiers such as QS for monitored anesthesia care and QX for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist services with physician direction. The summary also highlights associated provider taxonomies and common ICD-10 diagnoses linked to lower leg fractures. Additionally, related CPT codes for orthopedic procedures are discussed to provide a comprehensive view of the billing landscape.
This article offers benchmarks, policy updates, and a clear overview of how anesthesia services for lower leg bone surgery are coded and reimbursed, supporting stakeholders in understanding national trends and payer requirements.
CPT Code Overview
CPT code 01480 is used to report anesthesia services for surgical procedures involving the lower leg bones. This code is specifically designated for anesthesiology care provided during lower leg bone surgery. The typical site of service for procedures billed under 01480 is a facility setting, such as a hospital or ambulatory surgery center. These services are essential for ensuring patient comfort and safety during complex orthopedic interventions on the lower extremities.
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A typical patient scenario involves an adult presenting to a hospital or ambulatory surgery center with a closed fracture of the tibia, such as a fracture of the upper, shaft, or lower end of the right or left tibia. The patient is scheduled for lower leg bone surgery, which may include open reduction and internal fixation or other surgical repair. An anesthesiology provider, such as an anesthesiologist, certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA), or anesthesiology assistant, administers anesthesia for the procedure. The workflow includes preoperative assessment, administration of anesthesia, intraoperative monitoring, and postoperative care in a facility setting.
Coding Specifications
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Modifiers:
QS: Monitored anesthesia care service. Used when the anesthesia provider delivers monitored anesthesia care (MAC) during the procedure.QX: CRNA service with medical direction by a physician. Used when a CRNA provides anesthesia services under the medical direction of a physician.
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Provider Taxonomies:
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