Can D9224 be used for pediatric patients?

Yes, D9224 can be used for pediatric patients requiring general anesthesia with an advanced airway, especially in cases of extensive dental work or high anxiety.

Is pre-authorization required for D9224?

Pre-authorization may be required depending on the patient's insurance plan. It is advisable to check with the insurance provider before scheduling the procedure.

How should the time be documented for D9224?

The time should be documented from the start of anesthesia administration to the end, including any additional increments billed separately.

What constitutes an 'advanced airway' in D9224?

An advanced airway typically refers to devices such as endotracheal tubes or laryngeal mask airways used to secure the patient's airway during general anesthesia.

D9224

GA with Advanced Airway - CDT Code Guide

Adjunctive

Overview

CDT code D9224 refers to the administration of general anesthesia with an advanced airway for the first 15-minute increment or any portion thereof. This procedure is typically used in dental settings where patients require deep sedation for complex or lengthy procedures. General anesthesia with an advanced airway ensures that the patient remains unconscious and pain-free during the procedure, while the advanced airway secures the patient's airway to maintain proper ventilation. This code is crucial for procedures that cannot be performed under local anesthesia or conscious sedation due to patient anxiety, medical conditions, or the complexity of the dental work involved.

When to Use This Code

Complex oral surgery requiring deep sedation
Patients with severe dental anxiety or phobia
Procedures on patients with special needs who cannot tolerate conscious sedation
Extensive restorative procedures that require prolonged patient immobility
Cases where local anesthesia is ineffective or contraindicated

Documentation Requirements

Detailed anesthesia record including start and end times
Pre-anesthesia evaluation and patient consent
Documentation of the need for general anesthesia
Post-anesthesia recovery notes
Advanced airway management details
Monitoring records during the procedure

Billing Considerations

When billing for D9224, it is important to note that this code covers only the first 15 minutes of general anesthesia with an advanced airway. Additional time should be billed using subsequent codes. Check with the patient's insurance for coverage limitations and pre-authorization requirements. Common modifiers may include those indicating the patient's physical status or the complexity of the procedure.

Related CDT Codes

D9223 D9243 D9248 D9230 D9241

Frequently Asked Questions

D9224 is used for the first 15-minute increment of general anesthesia with an advanced airway, while D9223 is used for each additional 15-minute increment.

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