Overview

CPT 59812 is used for the surgical removal of retained products of conception in any trimester via vaginal dilation and curettage (sharp or suction) after a spontaneous, incomplete abortion. It covers procedures that were not completed naturally and require surgical intervention.

Purpose

This code ensures the provider is reimbursed for essential surgical intervention to manage retained tissue following miscarriage safely. It separates surgical care from general E/M visits, so every required service is coded and paid appropriately.

Clinical Scenarios Where CPT 59812 Applies

An incomplete spontaneous abortion is one where retained tissue remains after the initial miscarriage.
Heavy or prolonged bleeding with retained gestational tissue identified on ultrasound.
Suspected infection (e.g., fever, foul discharge) tied to retained products in any trimester.

Procedure Overview for CPT 59812

Inclusions: Vaginal dilation and surgical evacuation (D&C or D&E) to remove retained products of conception. Covers first, second, or third trimester.
Exclusions: Surgical treatment of missed abortion or medically managed miscarriage; those who use CPT 59820 or 59821.
Documentation Requirements: Detailed procedure notes including indication, gestational age, ultrasound findings, tool(s) used, tissue removed, anesthesia, complications, and global period.

Billing and Reimbursement Tips for CPT 59812

Recognize the 90-day global period routine postoperative visits bundled; use modifier 57 for significant E/M on the same day.
Report modifier 22 when the procedure involves substantially greater time or complexity than typical (e.g., hysteroscope use, extensive curettage).
Do not use delivery codes for 59812 distinct from obstetric delivery codes, even if pregnancy is <22 weeks.
Confirm payer bundling rules avoid billing separate E/M services except when appropriately modified.

Boost Financial and Compliance Outcomes Of Your OBGYN Medical Billing with BillingFreedom

Removing retained products after miscarriage is clinically critical and triggers complex billing requirements. With BillingFreedom’s OBGYN medical billing services, your practice gains:

Higher payment precision: Clean, well-documented claims reduce coding errors and payment gaps.
Smoother cash flow: Effective global period and modifier use help reduce AR days.
Stronger compliance: We help you avoid payer audits by ensuring claims meet CPT-based surgical standards.
Less admin burden: We manage code selection, documentation prompts, modifier strategies, and payer guidelines so you can continue patient care without billing disruptions.

Let BillingFreedom optimize your post-miscarriage procedure billing so every surgical step is documented, compliant, and reimbursed.

For more details about our exceptional medical billing services, please don't hesitate to contact us via email at info@billingfreedom.com or call us at +1 (855) 415-3472.

Your financial tranquility is our priority!