CPC Exam Dumps : Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Exam

This scenario describes acytogenetic-type analysis targetingchromosomal abnormalities, performed using fluorescence-based microscopy techniques (commonly conceptually aligned with FISH-type evaluation). The question explicitly states thatno specific CPT code accurately describes the service, which signals that anunlistedcode is required. In CPT, the88299code is the unlisted procedure code forcytogenetic studies, used when a chromosomal/genetic laboratory procedure does not have a more specific existing CPT descriptor. The other unlisted options correspond to different laboratory sections:84999is an unlisted chemistry procedure,88199is an unlisted cytopathology procedure, and88749is not the correct unlisted cytogenetics code for this context as presented. CPC exam technique: match thedomainfirst (chromosomes → cytogenetics), then select the appropriateunlisted code within that domainwhen the stem says no specific CPT code exists. Proper use of unlisted codes also implies documentation of method, purpose, and comparables for payer review, but the test asks only for the correct unlisted CPT code.

1. Procedure and CPT® Code Selection:

The patient underwent a thyroidectomy for malignancy in the right lobe, as well as the removal of the parathyroid gland due to a suspected malignant lesion.

CPT® Code 60505 is for the parathyroidectomy with exploration of parathyroid glands and is appropriate for the removal of the parathyroid gland due to a suspected malignancy.

CPT® Code 60220 represents a thyroid lobectomy (total removal of one lobe of the thyroid), which applies to the removal of the right thyroid lobe in this case.

2. Modifier 59:

Modifier 59 is added to 60220 to indicate that the thyroid lobectomy is a distinct procedure from the parathyroidectomy, performed in a separate anatomical site during the same surgical session.

3. Rationale for Excluding Other Options:

Code 60500 (in options A and C) is for a parathyroid exploration only, not including the actual removal of the parathyroid gland, so it does not apply here.

Code 60240 (in option D) is for a total thyroidectomy, which involves removal of the entire thyroid gland. Since only the right lobe was removed, 60220 (thyroid lobectomy) is correct.

4. AAPC and CPT® Coding Guidelines:

Per AAPC guidelines, 60505 is the appropriate code for parathyroidectomy procedures involving exploration or suspected malignancy, and 60220 with Modifier 59 accurately reflects the separate and distinct thyroid lobectomy procedure.

Thus, the correct answer is B. 60505, 60220-59.

98012 = Telephone E/M, 11–20 minutes

99447 is for interprofessional consults, not patient calls

HCPCS LEVEL II