In CPT coding, which symbol indicates a product pending FDA approval?

In CPT coding, which symbol indicates a product pending FDA approval?

• A. Lightning bolt
• B. Star
• C. Circle with slash
• D. Hash

Answer: (A)

The symbol that signals a product pending FDA approval is the lightning bolt. This mark flags items that are new or newly introduced but not yet cleared by the FDA, so coding and billing must account for the device’s regulatory status. When you see this symbol, you should verify the current FDA standing and be aware that payers may have additional documentation or evidence requirements, or may delay or deny reimbursement for unapproved devices. The other symbols convey different alerts about codes (such as new or revised codes or reporting requirements) and do not indicate FDA-pending status.

The symbol that signals a product pending FDA approval is the lightning bolt. This mark flags items that are new or newly introduced but not yet cleared by the FDA, so coding and billing must account for the device’s regulatory status. When you see this symbol, you should verify the current FDA standing and be aware that payers may have additional documentation or evidence requirements, or may delay or deny reimbursement for unapproved devices. The other symbols convey different alerts about codes (such as new or revised codes or reporting requirements) and do not indicate FDA-pending status.