What does the -58 modifier signify?

The -58 modifier is used in Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) coding to indicate that a procedure was planned or anticipated at the time of an initial surgery but was carried out during the postoperative period. This modifier signifies that the procedure being performed was staged or related and should not be considered as routine postoperative care.

For instance, if a surgeon performs a procedure and later, during the recovery phase, determines that an additional related procedure is necessary, the -58 modifier would be appended to the subsequent procedure code. This signals to insurance payers that the additional procedure was a continuation of the original surgical plan, which justifies its separate billing.

The other options do not accurately represent the purpose of the -58 modifier. It is crucial to understand that modifiers are designed to provide additional context for procedures, particularly when they occur in relation to others or during specific periods.