When coding for a procedure that was discontinued before the intended operation, what should be coded?

When coding for a procedure that was discontinued before the intended operation, the appropriate coding practice is to select the intended procedure that was planned but not completed. This reflects the clinical intent and the procedural steps that were anticipated, even though they did not culminate in a completed operation.

Choosing to code the intended procedure captures the context of what was supposed to occur and maintains accurate documentation of healthcare services rendered. It helps ensure that data regarding the patient's care is complete and informative for statistical purposes, quality assurance, and understanding the patient’s treatment pathway.

In this scenario, coding the intended procedure rather than what was actually performed or reasons for discontinuation aligns with the coding guidelines, as it appropriately communicates the healthcare provider's objective, which is essential for health records, billing, and future care considerations. This practice aids in tracking the identification of potential complexities in patient management and understanding healthcare service dynamics.