November 2008 page 11
Surgery/Digestive System
Question: How would you code implantation of an enterocutaneous
fistula plug, a procedure to correct an abnormal passage
that leaks the contents of the stomach or the intestine (small or
large bowel) to other organs, usually other parts of the intestine
(entero-enteral) or the skin (enterocutaneous)?
Answer: There is no specific CPT code to describe implantation
of an enterocutaneous fistula plug. If the enterocutaneous
fistula is small or large intestine, then code
44799, Unlisted procedure, intestine, should be used to
report this procedure. Supporting documentation (eg, an
operative report or office notes) should...
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