Bunion Procedure Coding in CPT
Instructor
Beth Martilik, MA, RHIA, CDIP, CCSDescription
Bunion Procedure Coding in CPT is an online, self-paced course for outpatient and professional fee coders who need a clear understanding of how to assign CPT codes for bunionectomy procedures. Because bunion correction can be performed using several different surgical techniques, this module explains the most commonly used approaches and how CPT distinguishes among them. Coders will learn what to look for in operative documentation, how to match the procedure details to the correct code, and where coding pitfalls often occur. This course includes 1 AHIMA CEU and focuses specifically on bunionectomy coding; it does not address procedures for bunionette or tailor’s bunion.
Included Lessons:
- What is a Bunion?
- Anatomy of Foot
- Types of Bunion Surgeries
- Coding of Bunion Procedures
- Sample of Operative Reports
- NCCI Policy Manual
- Coding Clinic for HCPCS References
- CPT References
CEUs available for the following credentials:
AHIMA
CCA, CCS, CCS-P, RHIT, RHIA, CDIP, CHDA, CHPS
Key Takeaways
- Focused Learning on Bunionectomy Coding: The course specifically concentrates on the coding of bunionectomy procedures, providing a specialized learning experience.
- Exploration of Procedure Variations: Learners will explore various bunionectomy procedures, understanding the distinct coding requirements for each.
- Utilization of Current Procedural Terminology (CPT): The course emphasizes the use of CPT coding, equipping participants with relevant knowledge and skills.
- Exclusion of Bunionette or Tailor’s Bunion: The course content is curated to focus solely on bunionectomy of the great toe, excluding procedures related to the little toe.
- Clarity and Detail: The instruction aims to be clear and detailed, making the coding process more understandable and less daunting for coders.
Benefits of Taking this Course
- Focused bunionectomy coding knowledge
- Understanding procedural variations
- Mastery in CPT application
- Enhanced coding accuracy
- Specialized surgical coding insights
FAQs
What will I learn about CPT coding for bunion (hallux valgus) correction procedures?
This course explains how to correctly assign CPT codes for common bunion correction procedures, including osteotomies, bunionectomies, soft-tissue releases, and combined corrective techniques. You’ll learn how CPT defines each procedure type and how surgical approach, fixation method, and the specific correction performed influence final code selection.
How does the course help coders distinguish between different types of bunion procedures for accurate CPT assignment?
The course breaks down key differences among distal, proximal, and midfoot osteotomies as well as soft-tissue procedures and combined corrections. You’ll review real operative report examples to see how documentation language—such as “Chevron,” “Akin,” “Lapidus,” or “capsulorrhaphy”—maps to specific CPT codes, ensuring accurate and consistent reporting.
Will this course improve my ability to identify the documentation details needed to code bunion procedures correctly?
Yes. The course highlights the essential documentation elements coders must locate, including the type of osteotomy performed, the location of the correction, the use of hardware or fixation, and whether multiple procedures were performed during the same session. You’ll learn how to interpret surgical terminology and determine when additional services or modifiers may be required for compliant coding.
About Our Medical Coding Courses
HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a flexible, online education platform designed for today’s coders. With a growing catalog of AHIMA and AAPC-approved coding courses, HIAlearn supports both beginners and experienced coders looking to build confidence, accuracy, and CEU credits.
Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS, and are designed for multiple specialties including inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI.
To stay up to date, coders can explore our Coding Updates hub for the latest ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS changes. HIAlearn also supports organizations with group discounts and scalable team access, promoting accuracy, compliance, and continuous professional development across departments.
Disclaimer: This course is not for individual sale. Purchase an annual or monthly subscription below and get access to 200+ courses.
.png)
Keep learning with more medical coding courses from HIAlearn.
Postoperative Complication Coding in ICD-10-CM
Learn to accurately code postoperative complications by distinguishing expected findings from true complications and applying ICD-10-CM rules through clear guidance and real-world scenarios.
Specificity Coding in ICD‑10‑CM
Strengthens the coder’s ability to apply highly specific diagnosis codes (e.g., hallux valgus), which directly impact CPT code selection.
Nerve Block Coding in CPT
Master CPT nerve block coding by understanding block types, anatomy, documentation rules, NCCI guidance, and key distinctions for postoperative pain blocks.