Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA) — Question 137

In ICD-9-CM, when an exploratory laparotomy is performed followed by a therapeutic procedure, the coder lists

Answer options

• A. therapeutic procedure first, exploratory laparotomy second.
• B. exploratory laparotomy, therapeutic procedure, closure of wound.
• C. therapeutic procedure only.
• D. exploratory laparotomy first, therapeutic procedure second.

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is C, as ICD-9-CM guidelines dictate that only the therapeutic procedure is coded when it follows an exploratory laparotomy. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because they include the exploratory laparotomy in the coding, which is not necessary in this scenario.