Laparoscopic Mobilization of Splenic Flexure With Open Colectomy

Question:

Our provider began a laparoscopic procedure for colectomy and completed the mobilization of the splenic flexure laparoscopically, but then needed to convert to an open procedure to perform the colectomy. What is the correct coding for laparoscopic mobilization of the splenic flexure with open colectomy?

Answer:

When a laparoscopic procedure is converted to an open procedure, you can only code for the open procedure, so in this case, only code for the appropriate open colectomy code; the laparoscopic mobilization of the splenic flexure is not separately billable.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 4/10/25.