Which modifier indicates that a surgeon has provided only surgical care without preoperative and postoperative oversight?

The correct choice is based on the definition and application of modifier 54 in the context of surgical procedures. Modifier 54 is used to indicate that a surgical service was performed without follow-up care, meaning the surgeon provided the surgical procedure but did not manage the preoperative or postoperative care associated with that surgery.

This modifier is particularly relevant when a patient may need to be referred to another physician for postoperative management or when the surgical care is performed in a different facility from where the preoperative or postoperative care is provided. By using modifier 54, insurance companies can distinguish between the services provided and ensure that reimbursements are made appropriately based on the scope of care rendered by the surgeon.

The other modifiers mentioned serve different purposes: for example, modifier 55 relates specifically to postoperative care provided by a different physician, modifier 56 pertains to preoperative care without surgical services, and modifier 53 indicates a procedure that was started but aborted due to extenuating circumstances. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for correct coding and billing practices.