Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Question: I can't find a CPT that takes into account the prolonged nature of a seven-hour pH electrode test for GERD. How should I report it?

Oregon Subscriber

Answer: You will not find a code describing prolonged pH electrode testing for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) because CPT eliminated that code in 2005.

You should now report all catheter pH-monitoring sessions with 91034 (Esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux test; with  nasal catheter pH electrode[s] placement, recording, analysis and interpretation). For instance, a patient reports for a pH study to identify the cause of acute esophagitis, and the gastroenterologist performs a seven-hour pH monitoring session. Bill the following in your claim:

• 91034 for the pH testing;
• 530.12 (Acute esophagitis) to represent the patient's symptoms;

documentation on any previous treatments or tests the GI physician performed on the patient for the condition.