In Table 10J, the approach character of 3 signifies which type of approach?

The approach character of 3 in Table 10J indicates a percutaneous approach. This coding is used to describe procedures where access to the site of intervention is achieved through the skin, typically involving the insertion of a needle or catheter to perform the desired procedure. The percutaneous approach is common in various minimally invasive procedures, allowing for patient recovery with less trauma compared to open surgical techniques.

In the context of the other approaches listed, an open approach entails a larger incision and direct access to the surgical site, which is the most invasive and is not represented by the number 3. Endoscopic procedures involve accessing the area of interest through natural body openings using a specialized instrument designed for visualization; this is categorized with a different approach character. Robotic surgeries, which utilize robotic systems to assist in performing surgeries, are also designated by specific characters that do not correspond to the percutaneous approach.

Thus, when referring to the approach character of 3, it directly points to a percutaneous route, emphasizing the minimally invasive nature of the technique through which procedures are conducted.