A coding specialist should use which modifier to report multiple procedures?

• A. -50
• B. -51
• C. -52
• D. -53

Answer: (B)

When more than one procedure is performed in the same surgical session, you indicate that by using the Multiple Procedures modifier on the codes for the additional procedures. This modifier tells the payer that there were two or more distinct procedures carried out, which can affect how payment is processed. Typically, you apply it to the second and subsequent procedures while the primary procedure is reported without the modifier.

Other modifiers have different purposes: the Bilateral modifier indicates a procedure performed on both sides of the body, not simply that several procedures were done; the Reduced Services modifier signals that only part of a service was completed; and the Discontinued Procedure modifier is used when a procedure is stopped before completion. These do not convey that multiple procedures were performed in the same encounter.