2-19. STEPS IN USING VOLUME 3
a. Begin with the Alphabetic Index. Locate the main term which will be in bold
type.
NOTE: Do not code directly from the Alphabetic Index.
b. Refer to the Tabular List to verify that the code number you have selected is
in accord with the procedure performed.
NOTE: There are many exclusion notes in the Tabular List. Read
and be guided by the exclusion terms and exclusion notes under the category and
subcategory.
c. Follow the instructions and any note to "code also." Use two or more codes to
completely code each component of a procedure.
NOTE: Remember the surgical approach and closure are part of the operation and do
not require codes in addition to the code for the operations, unless they are unusual or
required by the statement "code also."
d. Verify the code at the main 2-digit category for any added instructions.
MD0753
2-21