Modifier 79
Unrelated procedure or service by same physician during postoperative period
✅ When to Use Modifier 79
When a procedure completely unrelated to the original surgery is performed during the global period. DOES restart a new global period.
⛔ When NOT to Use Modifier 79
Do NOT use if the procedure is related to or a complication of the original surgery (use 78 instead).
📋 Documentation Requirements
Document that the procedure is unrelated to the original surgery with a different diagnosis.
Modifier 79 FAQ
What does modifier 79 mean? +
Unrelated procedure or service by same physician during postoperative period
When should I use modifier 79? +
When a procedure completely unrelated to the original surgery is performed during the global period. DOES restart a new global period.
When should I NOT use modifier 79? +
Do NOT use if the procedure is related to or a complication of the original surgery (use 78 instead).
What documentation is required for modifier 79? +
Document that the procedure is unrelated to the original surgery with a different diagnosis.
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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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