Which modifier is used when a procedure is not carried out completely but has commenced?

Modifier 53 is specifically designed to indicate that a procedure was started but not completed due to extenuating circumstances. This modifier is particularly useful in situations where the physician must discontinue a procedure after initiation, often due to patient safety concerns or unforeseen events that prevent the procedure from being carried out to completion. By using Modifier 53, providers can inform payers that while the procedure commenced, it did not reach completion, which helps ensure appropriate billing and reimbursement.

In contrast, Modifier 54 denotes the surgical care only, Modifier 52 indicates a reduced service when a service is partially completed, and Modifier 55 relates to post-operative management when the physician who performed the surgery does not provide post-operative care. These modifiers serve different purposes and do not communicate the scenario of a procedure that was initiated but ultimately not finished, making Modifier 53 the most applicable choice here.