Coding Mesentery Repair

Question:

Documentation states that the mesentery was repaired as part of where the liver was packed. How is this reported?

Answer:

Code 44850,Suture of mesentery (separate procedure)is designated as a separate procedure and therefore is included in the more comprehensive procedure, the liver packing.  The separate procedure designation means that the procedure is usually a component of a more complex service and is not reported in addition to the more complex service in performed in the same anatomic area.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 10/04/18.