Modifier 78
Unplanned return to OR for a related procedure during the post-operative period
✅ When to Use Modifier 78
Unplanned return to OR for a complication or condition related to the original surgery. Only the intraoperative work (work RVU) is paid. Does NOT restart the global period.
⛔ When NOT to Use Modifier 78
Do NOT use for planned staged procedures (use 58) or unrelated procedures (use 79).
📋 Documentation Requirements
Document the complication, its relationship to the original surgery, and the procedure performed.
Modifier 78 FAQ
What does modifier 78 mean? +
Unplanned return to OR for a related procedure during the post-operative period
When should I use modifier 78? +
Unplanned return to OR for a complication or condition related to the original surgery. Only the intraoperative work (work RVU) is paid. Does NOT restart the global period.
When should I NOT use modifier 78? +
Do NOT use for planned staged procedures (use 58) or unrelated procedures (use 79).
What documentation is required for modifier 78? +
Document the complication, its relationship to the original surgery, and the procedure performed.
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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team
Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on July 16, 2026.
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