Use modifier 53 when a service is terminated due to circumstances beyond the physician or health care provider's control. This may include conditions that threaten the patient's health.

• Do not use modifier 53 for an elective cancellation of the procedure.
• This modifier can be used with both diagnostic or surgical CPT codes.
• Facilities reporting a discontinued outpatient procedure should use modifier 73 or 74.

Please reference the CPT Manual for additional instruction.

Modifier 53 reimbursement

Reimbursement under all plans will be 50% of the base fee schedule. This does not include MSD reduction, bilateral pricing, etc., that may also be applied.