Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Question: What is the diagnosis code for gastric inlet patch?

Answer: If you are referring to an esophageal inlet patch, this condition is considered a congenital anomaly -- a remnant of gastric mucosa which is left behind during the descent of the stomach in embryologic development. Esophageal inlet patch can be found in about 4.5 percent of infants and up to 12 percent of children. Its presence is estimated at around 1 to 10 percent in adults. Because it is of no clinical significance, patients do not need to undergo any treatments or regular follow-ups. You might use 750.4 (Other specified anomalies of esophagus) to report the diagnosis.

Careful: Coding "other" as a diagnosis often equates to $0.00 when it comes to payment from many carriers. Specific codes offer greater deal for the patient's record and for your billingstatement.