Oophorectomy procedures, whether partial or total, require careful coding and detailed documentation to ensure proper reimbursement. Accurate reporting of laterality, surgical approach, and the extent of ovarian removal is critical for OBGYN medical billing. By capturing procedural complexity, clinical indications, and operative details, practices can reduce denials, support compliance, and optimize revenue. This guideline provides best practices for coding, documentation, and reporting CPT 58940 oophorectomy procedures.
Definition and Scope For CPT 58940
CPT 58940, as defined by the American Medical Association (AMA) and referenced on AAPC’s Codify platform (unchanged through 2025/2026 updates), is:
Oophorectomy, partial or total, unilateral or bilateral.
This code describes an open surgical procedure (via laparotomy or minilaparotomy) in which the surgeon removes part (partial oophorectomy) or all (total oophorectomy) of one or both ovaries. It is performed for benign ovarian masses, ovarian torsion, infection or abscess unresponsive to drainage, chronic pain, or prophylactic risk reduction in select high-risk patients. The procedure may preserve ovarian function when partial removal is performed.
Scenarios for CPT 58940
These examples illustrate when CPT 58940 is appropriately reported, helping coders and practices ensure accurate OBGYN medical billing and proper reimbursement.
Unilateral Total Oophorectomy for Benign Tumor
A patient presents with a large benign ovarian tumor. The surgeon removes the affected ovary via laparotomy. CPT 58940 is reported.
Bilateral Partial Oophorectomy for Fertility Preservation
Both ovaries have multiple benign cysts. Partial removal is performed to relieve symptoms while preserving ovarian function. CPT 58940 is reported with documentation confirming bilateral and partial procedure.
Oophorectomy for Ovarian Torsion
A torsed ovary fails conservative management and requires surgical removal. CPT 58940 is used to report the procedure.
Distinct Oophorectomy During Hysterectomy
An incidental oophorectomy is performed during a hysterectomy and clearly documented as distinct. CPT 58940 is reported with modifier -59.
Removal of Chronically Infected Ovary
An ovary with chronic infection or abscess unresponsive to drainage is surgically removed. CPT 58940 is reported to reflect the procedure.
Modifier Considerations For CPT Code 58940
Appropriate modifiers may include:
- Modifier 59 (Distinct Procedural Service): If the laparoscopic oophorectomy with adnexal removal is a separate service from another operative procedure in the same session and documentation supports it.
- Modifier 22 (Increased Procedural Services): When surgical complexity exceeds typical expectations (e.g., extensive adhesions), with supporting operative documentation.
Documentation must clearly justify any modifier use.
CPT Code 58940 - Documentation Essentials
To support CPT 58940, documentation should clearly describe:
- The clinical indication for combined ovary and adnexal removal
- Laterality (right or left)
- Laparoscopic approach and findings
- Reason the procedure is distinct or separate from any concurrent procedures
Clear intraoperative notes and rationale support payer review and reduce denials.
Reimbursement Considerations - CPT Code 58940
Reimbursement varies by payer, place of service, and laterality. CPT 58940 carries a standard global period and requires appropriate ICD‑10 diagnosis codes that reflect combined adnexal pathology. Preauthorization may be needed depending on clinical indication and payer policy.
BillingFreedom: Expert OBGYN Medical Billing for Oophorectomy
BillingFreedom’s team specializes in OBGYN medical billing, reviewing operative notes to ensure:
- Accurate laterality and partial vs. total designation
- Clear documentation of clinical indication (e.g., benign mass, torsion, infection, or prophylactic removal)
- Proper application of modifiers (-22 for complexity, -59/-XU for distinct services)
Maximize Revenue & Reduce Denials
- Coding accuracy: 98–99% for complex OBGYN procedures
- First-pass claim acceptance: 97–99%
- Denial rates: consistently under 3%
Comprehensive Support Services
- Preauthorization guidance for elective and complex ovarian surgeries
- Claims submission, tracking, and denial management
- Updates on AMA CPT changes, NCCI edits, and payer-specific rules
- Detailed operative note review to ensure compliance and accurate reimbursement
Partnering with BillingFreedom allows OBGYN practices to focus on patient care while our experts handle coding and billing complexities for CPT 58940. From precision to revenue optimization, we help practices maximize claims efficiency and reimbursement.
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Related CPT Codes
CPT Codes
58750 - Tubotubal Anastomosis (Tubal Reanastomosis)
58805 - Abdominal Drainage of Ovarian Cyst(s) (Separate Procedure)
58822 - Abdominal Drainage of Ovarian Abscess: Surgical Coding and Billing Guide
58900 - Biopsy of Ovary (Unilateral or Bilateral): Surgical Coding and Billing Guide
58920 - Wedge Resection or Bisection of Ovary: Surgical Coding and Billing Guide
58925 - Ovarian Cystectomy: Accurate Coding and OBGYN Medical Billing Guide
58943 - Malignancy-Specific Oophorectomy: OBGYN Medical Billing Guide
58950 - Initial Malignancy Resection with Bilateral Salpingo-Oophorectomy & Omentectomy