Which of the following modifiers is commonly used for reporting increased complexity in a procedure?

The modifier used for reporting increased complexity in a procedure is 22. This modifier indicates that the procedures performed were more difficult than usual, and it is applicable in situations where additional work is required. For example, when a surgical procedure takes significantly longer due to anatomical anomalies or requires extra techniques or equipment that are not typical for that procedure, the 22 modifier can help justify additional reimbursement to reflect the complexity involved.

This modifier serves an important role in coding as it provides a mechanism to capture the nuances of complex cases where standard codes might not fully encompass the extent of the work done. It allows for fair compensation for healthcare providers who encounter challenging scenarios in their practice.

The other modifiers listed do not pertain to increased complexity in procedures: modifier 50 indicates bilateral procedures, modifier 21 is used for prolonged services in the office setting, and modifier 23 signifies an unusual anesthesia service. Each of these modifiers serves distinct purposes and does not relate to the complexity of the procedure itself.