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Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Mark Colonoscopy Through Stoma Procedures Using 44388-44389

Published on Thu Nov 10, 2011

Question: I heard CPT has a different code for colonoscopies performed thru a colostomy bag. I'm at a lost finding a code for the tattooing of a polyp when the procedure was done this way. What should I report?Delaware SubscriberAnswer: No specific CPT code exists for tattooing when the physician performs colonoscopy via stoma. For standard colonoscopy, you would use 45381 (Colonoscopy, flexible, proximal to splenic flexure; with directed submucosal injection[s], any substance) for tattooing or any other type of injection, but you won't find an injection code within the family of codes for colonoscopy through a stoma. If the GI performs a colonoscopy via stoma and takes a biopsy, then you should report 44389 (Colonoscopy through stoma; with biopsy, single or multiple). Otherwise, bill 44388 (Colonoscopy through stoma; diagnostic, with or without collection of specimen[s] by brushing or washing [separate procedure]) for a diagnostic procedure. You would need to [...]
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