Ophthalmic Coding Specialist Practice Test

What is included in the major surgical global period concerning complications?

1. Routine follow-up visits only

2. Management of complications unless returning to the operating room

3. Post-operative therapy

4. No management of complications

The correct answer is: Management of complications unless returning to the operating room

The major surgical global period encompasses a range of post-operative care services following a surgical procedure, and it is particularly important to understand what is included in this context regarding complications. The correct choice accurately reflects the policies surrounding post-operative care. Management of complications that arise as a direct result of the surgical procedure falls within the global period. This includes scenarios where the physician needs to address issues that are a normal occurrence following surgery. However, this coverage is contingent upon the condition that the patient does not require another surgical procedure to address these complications, which would be an indication for a separate global period. Choices that only mention routine follow-up visits or post-operative therapy do not adequately capture the nuances of the global period's provisions regarding complications. Also, stating that there is no management of complications would overlook the necessary care that surgeons must provide following surgery, which is integral for patient recovery and safety. Thus, option B captures the necessary aspect of managing complications unless a return to the operating room is required, emphasizing the ongoing responsibility of the surgeon during the global period.