Modifier 62

When two surgeons work together as primary surgeons performing distinct parts of procedure , each surgeon should report the co-surgery once using the same procedure code and report his distinct operative work by adding modifier 62 and any associated and on codes for the procedure.


For modifier 62, two surgeons may only be co-surgeons on one primary procedure and any associated add on codes or additional procedure if the two surgeons continue to act as co-surgeons performing distinct separate parts of the same procedure.

If additional procedure(s), including add-on procedures, are performed during the same surgical session, separate codes may also be reported with modifier 62 added.
Per the AMA rules, you cannot append modifier 62 to the instrumentation or grafting codes.
If a co-surgeon acts as an assistant in the performance of additional procedures(s) during the same surgical session, those services may be reported using separate procedure code(s) with the modifier 80 or modifier 82 added.

Documentation
Additional reimbursement will be considered only when the documentation submitted clearly states the medical necessity of the co-surgery.
Each surgeon must document the separate procedures they are performing, or portions of procedures in individual op reports.
If multiple procedures are performed not all will necessarily meet the standard for co-surgery.
Billing must include the supporting documentation for use of modifier 62 versus modifier 80.