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Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

You Don't Need an Additional Code for Brushing

Published on Sun Jul 02, 2006

Question: One of our doctors performed an EGD with biopsy and brushing. I know I should use 43239 because it includes biopsy, but I can't find anything in the CPT book for brushing (except for 43235, which is bundled into 43239). Would you tell me how to properly code this procedure?

Pennsylvania Subscriber  
Answer: You have the right answer, but you just didn't realize it. There is no additional code for brushing. Code 43239 (Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy including esophagus, stomach, and either the duodenum and/or jejunum as appropriate; with biopsy, single or multiple) includes brushing.
 
So instead of reporting two separate codes -- 43235 (... diagnostic, with or without collection of specimen[s] by brushing or washing [separate procedure]) and then adding a code for the biopsy -- just report 43239.
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