Gastroenterology Coding Alert
Does Argon Plasma Call for a Special Code?
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.
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Does Argon Plasma Call for a Special Code?
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The December 2005 Gastroenterology Coding Alert included a typographical error on page 96 in the [...]
