ICD-10-PCS Fundamentals for Facility Coders – Key Terms

Character 3 of an ICD-10-PCS code; defines the objective/intent of the procedure (e.g., Excision, Resection, Fusion, Bypass). Root operation B; cutting out or off a portion (not all) of a body part. Root operation T; cutting out or off ALL of a body part (complete organ removal). Character 5; the method used to access the operative site (Open, Percutaneous, Endoscopic, etc.). Approach value 4; entry by puncture or small incision with visualization—laparoscopic/thoracoscopic surgery. Character 6; any device remaining in the body at procedure conclusion. Z = no device. The reference grids used to build valid 7-character procedure codes; each table defines valid character combinations for a root operation. Root operation G; joining portions of an articular body part to render the joint immobile. Root operation 9; taking or letting out fluids or gases from a body part. Root operation C; taking or cutting out solid matter (e.g., thrombus, calculus) from a body part. Root operation R; putting in or on biological or synthetic material that physically takes the place of all or part of a body part. Character 1 of ICD-10-PCS; identifies the broad procedure category (e.g., 0 = Medical and Surgical).