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Gastroenterology Coding Alert

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Decompression Performed With Colonoscopy

Published on Mon May 01, 2000

Test your coding knowledge. Determine how you would code this situation before looking at the box below for the answer.


Question: Can we bill for a decompression when done with a colonoscopy?

Terri Nazor
Suncoast GI Associates, Bradenton, Fla


Answer: A decompression is a manipulation performed by the gastroenterologist to relieve pressure within the colon. Because the CPT considers decompression to be a standard component of the colonoscopy procedure, you cannot bill separately for the service.

The CPT description of a colonoscopy (45378) includes the phrase with or without colon decompression (separate procedure.) The term separate procedure indicates that the service is considered to be an integral part of the procedure and may not be reported additionally. Decompression also is considered an integral part of any other procedure in the colonoscopy family of codes (45378 to 45385).


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