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Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Try Add-On Code for Cholangioscopy

Published on Wed Sep 23, 2009

Question: What CPT code should I use to report the new SpyGlass visualization system? New Jersey Subscriber Answer: Report add-on code +43273 (Endoscopic cannulation of papilla with direct visualization of common bile duct[s] and/or pancreatic duct[s] [List separately in addition to code[s] for primary procedure]). To use this code, your gastroenterologist will need to perform ERCP, which includes codes 43260, 43261, 43263-43265, and 43267-43272 (Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography [ERCP] ...). Look for evidence in the doctor's notes that she cannulated, entered, or penetrated the papilla of Vater, which is where the bile duct empties into the lower intestine, or that she viewed the common bile duct or pancreatic duct. CPT introduced +43273 in 2009 to represent this new technology, which allows gastroenterologists to see inside the ducts that carry bile to the small intestine. Previously, gastroenterologists could only visualize the biliary system using imaging technology such as fluoroscopy or x-rays. With [...]
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