Gastroenterology Coding Alert
Looking for Code for Tattooing Polyp? Do This
Question: I heard CPT® has a different code for colonoscopies performed through a colostomy bag. I’m at a lost finding a code for the tattooing of a polyp when the procedure was done this way. What should I report?
Delaware Subscriber
Answer: No specific CPT® code exists for tattooing when the physician performs colonoscopy via stoma.
For standard colonoscopy, you would use 45381 (Colonoscopy, flexible; with directed submucosal injection[s], any substance) for tattooing or any other type of injection, but you won’t find an injection code within the family of codes for colonoscopy through a stoma.
If the GI performs a colonoscopy via stoma and takes a biopsy, then you should report 44389 (Colonoscopy through stoma; with biopsy, single or multiple).
Otherwise, bill 44388 (Colonoscopy through stoma; diagnostic, including collection of specimen[s] by brushing or washing, when performed [separate procedure]) for a diagnostic procedure. You would need to use the “unlisted” code 44799 (Unlisted procedure, small intestine) for the tattooing portion of the colonoscopy via stoma procedure. The added fee of less than 0.5 RVUs is probably not worth the hassle of submitting all the info needed for an unlisted code claim.
Related Articles
Gastroenterology Coding Alert
- ICD-10:
Size Up These 7 Gastroenterology Changes Planned for ICD-10-CM 2017
Get ready for more specific pancreatitis codes. The CDC has posted a preliminary list of [...] - PEG Tube Removal:
Only Removing PEG Tube? Focus on E/M Codes
Find out why 43247 just won’t do you any good. If you’ve asked yourself frequently [...] - Modifiers:
Draw the Line Between Modifiers 51, 59
Heads up: Medicare prefers you don’t use one of these modifiers at all. Many coders [...] - Reader Question:
Upper EGDs Have 0 Global Days
Question: My physician plans to perform a repeat EGD on a patient with significant amount of [...] - Reader Question:
Here's What to Do if Your Payers Reimburse 99360
Question: Our surgeons sometimes “standby” for other surgeons in some high-risk procedures or cases. They want [...] - Reader Question:
Attempted EGD Warrants Modifier 53
Question: The GI attempted an EGD on a patient with primary tongue carcinoma who had multiple [...] - Reader Question:
Bolster Placement? Prepare to Use Outpatient E/M
Question: I’ve heard about PEG tube bolster replacement, and curious about how I should report this [...] - Reader Question:
Apply 45990 For Rectal Exam With Anesthesia
Question: I can’t seem to find a proper CPT® code for this: The surgeon used a [...] - Reader Question:
For APC During EGD, Report 43255
Question: How should I report an EGD with Argon plasma coagulation performed by our gastroenterologist for [...] - You Be the Coder:
Looking for Code for Tattooing Polyp? Do This
Question: I heard CPT® has a different code for colonoscopies performed through a colostomy bag. I’m [...]
