Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Question: What code should I use for pH testing? What if my gastroenterologist leaves the catheter in place for more than 24 hours?


New Jersey Subscriber

Answer: When your gastroenterologist performs an esophageal acid reflux test using either a disposable or reusable nasal catheter, you should report 91034 (Esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux test; with nasal catheter pH electrode[s] placement, recording, analysis and interpretation).

In most cases, your physician will leave the catheter in place for 18-24 hours, but you'll claim 91034 regardless of how long the catheter remains in place.

Coding example: A patient reports for a pH study to identify what's causing his acute esophagitis. Your gastroenterologist performs a seven-hour pH monitoring session. For this service, you'll report 91034 linked with 530.12 (Acute esophagitis) to represent the patient's condition.

On the other hand, if your physician uses a Bravo capsule to conduct pH testing, you'll turn to 91035 (... with mucosal attached telemetry pH electrode placement, recording, analysis and interpretation) instead of 91034.