Which modifier would you apply for a separate procedure taking place the same day as a major operation?

The appropriate modifier for a separate procedure occurring on the same day as a major operation is Modifier 59. This modifier is used to indicate that procedures that are performed on the same day are distinct and independent from each other, providing clarity that they shouldn't be bundled together for reimbursement purposes.

In the context of a major operation, if a provider performs a separate procedure unrelated to the primary surgical service, Modifier 59 helps communicate to payers that this secondary procedure is valid and should be reimbursed as it is not an inherent part of the major surgery.

Applying Modifier 59 ensures that the medical necessity of both procedures is recognized, especially when they definitely serve different purposes in patient care, allowing for proper coding and payment.

In contrast, Modifier 58 would be used for staged or related procedures performed during the post-operative period of a major surgery, not for separate procedures. Modifier 62 is intended for co-surgeons who collaborate on a surgical procedure, while Modifier 57 indicates that a decision for surgery was made during the visit preceding the surgery, rather than addressing the scenario of separate procedures.