Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Question: Our gastroenterologist recently performed a Keofeed feeding tube placement at our facility. How do I report this?

New York Subscriber

Answer: The placement procedures for feeding tubes is reported based on the type and method that was used. A Keofeed feeding tube is a type of nasogastric tube. Nasogastric tubes, as the name indicates, are inserted via the nose into the stomach. The tube insertion is performed mainly for feeding purposes and also for the administration of drugs and other agents such as activated charcoal. You should report the placement of a nasogastric tube with 43752 (Naso- or oro-gastric tube placement, requiring physician's skill and fluoroscopic guidance [includes fluoroscopy, image documentation and report]).

Reminder: The procedure of nasogastric tube placement is usually done under fluoroscopic guidance. The fluoroscopic guidance forms a part of the procedure itself and should not be reported separately. Also, any documentation and report in relation to the images also form a part of the procedure and should not be reported separately.