[Histonet] Prostate needle saturation biopsies

[Cazares, Ruth]

Hello Histonetters,

With the new Medicare G codes for saturation biopsies of the prostate, the flyer reads:

G0416, Surgical pathology gross and microscopic exam for prostate needle saturation biopsy sampling, 1 to 20 specimens.
G0417, 21 to 40 specimens.
G0418, 41 to 60 specimens.
G0419, greater than 60 specimens.

We seem to be having a difference of opinion as to how we should use these new codes.  Some of us think that if we get forty cores both G0416 and G0417 should be used. Some think only G0417 should be used and some just don't know. Medicare was no help, they said "Write a letter".

How are others out there using these codes?


Ruth Cazares
Histology Supervisor
Department of Pathology
Swedish Covenant Hospital


***  Confidentiality Statement ***
This e-mail is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged and confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, please notify the sender immediately by replying to this message and then delete it from your system. Any review, dissemination, distribution, or reproduction of this message by unintended recipients is strictly prohibited and may be subject to legal restriction.


Thank you for your cooperation.