Advanced Search

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Decompression Bundled Into Colonoscopy Code

Published on Sat Jan 01, 2005

Question: A patient presented with a pseudo-obstruction in the colon. The gastroenterologist placed a decompression tube via guidewire during a colonoscopy. Can we report separate codes for the colonoscopy and decompression tube placement?

Arkansas Subscriber

Answer: You should not report the colonoscopy and tube placement independently. On the claim, report only 45378 (Colonoscopy, flexible, proximal to splenic flexure; diagnostic, with or without collection of specimen[s] by brushing or washing, with or without colon decompression [separate procedure]) for the procedure. According to CPT's definition, 45378 is the code to report when the gastro performs a diagnostic colonoscopy "with or without decompression."
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in Revenue Cycle Insider
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more

Other Articles in this issue of

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

View All