AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) — Question 60

A cardiologist attempted to perform a percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty of a totally occluded blood vessel. The surgeon stopped the procedure because of an anatomical problem creating risk for the patient and preventing performance of the catheterization.
What modifier is appended to the procedure code?

Answer options

• A. 52
• B. 53
• C. 54
• D. 76

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is B, modifier 53, which indicates that the procedure was discontinued due to extenuating circumstances. Option A, 52, is used for reduced services, which does not apply here since the procedure was not completed. Options C and D relate to different circumstances that do not fit the scenario described.