Anesthesia Coding Alert

Question: We have a patient diagnosed with benign prostate hyperplasia (600.21). My physicians notes indicate KTP for the procedure. What is this acronym,and what is the appropriate anesthesia code?

California Subscriber

Answer: KTP is shorthand for potassium-titanylphosphate laser vaporization of the prostate for benign prostatic obstruction. KTP laser (60-80 W) vaporization -- which may also be referred to as photoselective vaporization of the prostate -- involves the insertion of a small flexible fiberoptic tube into the urethra. Light pulses are then sent through this fiber, vaporizing and removing the prostatic obstruction.

The CPT procedure code for KTP is 52648 (Laser vaporization of prostate, including control of postoperative bleeding, complete [vasectomy, meatotomy,cystourethroscopy, urethral calibration and/or dilation,internal urethrotomy and transurethral resection of prostate are included if performed]). The anesthesia code is either 00914 (Anesthesia for transurethral procedures [including urethrocystoscopy]; transurethral resection of prostate) or 00916 (... post-transurethral resection bleeding) depending on the specifics of the anesthesiologists documentation.