Gastroenterology Coding Alert
Know When Not to Code Dilation with Esophagoscopy
Question: Is 43214 the most appropriate dilation code to pair with 43212? The doctor performed the balloon dilation to address an obstruction for an esophagoscopy patient who was getting a stent. California Subscriber Answer: The dilation and esophagoscopy are bundled together into one code, 43212 (Esophagoscopy, flexible, transoral; with placement of endoscopic stent (includes pre- and post-dilation and guide wire passage, when performed)), which means you should not report a separate dilation code. If you look directly underneath the CPT® description for 43214 and 43212, you’ll notice a list of codes to not report. You would use CPT® code 43220 (Esophagoscopy, flexible, transoral; with transendoscopic balloon dilation (less than 30 mm diameter) when the provider isn’t also trying to take a sample or place a stent.
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Know When Not to Code Dilation with Esophagoscopy
Question: Is 43214 the most appropriate dilation code to pair with 43212? The doctor performed the [...]
