In a case where a 69-year-old female underwent laparoscopic evaluation and repair of a symptomatic ventral hernia with mesh tacked to cover the defect, which CPT code should be reported?

In a case where a 69-year-old female underwent laparoscopic evaluation and repair of a symptomatic ventral hernia with mesh tacked to cover the defect, which CPT code should be reported?

• A. 49653
• B. 49652
• C. 49560
• D. 49328

Answer: (A)

Focus on the approach and technique being coded: this is a laparoscopic repair of a ventral hernia where a prosthetic mesh is placed and fixed in place with tacks. The CPT code that matches this specific combination—laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with mesh fixation by tacks—best represents what was done. Why this fits: the procedure uses a laparoscopic approach (not open), targets a ventral hernia, and incorporates mesh that is secured to cover the defect with tacks. Codes for open repair or for a repair without mesh, or codes describing diagnostic laparoscopy without a repair, would not accurately reflect the actual operation performed. The presence of mesh and fixation by tacks is what distinguishes this as the laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with mesh fixation, making that code the most appropriate choice.

Focus on the approach and technique being coded: this is a laparoscopic repair of a ventral hernia where a prosthetic mesh is placed and fixed in place with tacks. The CPT code that matches this specific combination—laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with mesh fixation by tacks—best represents what was done.

Why this fits: the procedure uses a laparoscopic approach (not open), targets a ventral hernia, and incorporates mesh that is secured to cover the defect with tacks. Codes for open repair or for a repair without mesh, or codes describing diagnostic laparoscopy without a repair, would not accurately reflect the actual operation performed. The presence of mesh and fixation by tacks is what distinguishes this as the laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with mesh fixation, making that code the most appropriate choice.