Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Practice Test

What CPT code denotes the excision of the parotid gland?

1. 42420-80

2. 45338

3. 46250

4. 33536

The correct answer is: 42420-80

The correct code for the excision of the parotid gland is 42420-80. This code specifically refers to the procedure involving the excision of tissue from the parotid gland, which is one of the major salivary glands located near the jaw. In the context of coding, the "-80" modifier indicates that the procedure was performed by another physician, which typically relates to circumstances in which a patient may have had surgery performed by a different provider, or when assistance in the procedure is necessary. Other codes mentioned, such as the codes for colonoscopy (45338), hemorrhoidectomy (46250), and coronary artery bypass (33536), do not pertain to salivary gland surgery and are suited to entirely different surgical procedures. This highlights the importance of using the specific code that corresponds directly to the surgical intervention being performed, as codes are carefully categorized based on the anatomy and specific procedures they represent. This specificity ensures accurate billing and proper documentation in medical records.