You Be the Coder:
Does Argon Plasma Call for a Special Code?
Published on Sat Nov 19, 2005
Question: Our gastroenterologist performed an EGD with Argon plasma coagulation for control of bleeding. What's the appropriate code for this?
Illinois Subscriber
Answer: Argon plasma coagulation (APC) involves using argon gas and electrical current to seal irregular tissue without any direct contact. This technique is useful in treating conditions such as Barrett's esophagus, esophageal cancer, rectal bleeding (post radiation proctitis) and colonic polyps, among others.
You should select 43255 (Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy including esophagus, stomach and either the duodenum and/or jejunum as appropriate; with control of bleeding, any method) for APC during EGD. CPT Code 43255 describes EGD with control of bleeding by any method.