CPT Code 44402 | Description & Clinical Information

CPT 44402 describes the medical procedure in which the healthcare provider conducts a colonoscopy by accessing the colon through a surgically created opening in the skin known as a stoma, and also performs the insertion of a stent through an endoscope.

Official Description

The CPT book defines CPT code 44402 as: “Colonoscopy through stoma; with endoscopic stent placement (including pre- and post-dilation and guide wire passage, when performed)”.

Billing Guidelines

It is not appropriate to report CPT code 44402 together with codes 44388 and 44405.

If fluoroscopic guidance is utilized, CPT code 74360 should be used.

Clinical Information

The procedure described by the CPT code 44402 involves the use of a colonoscope inserted through a stoma to examine the colon for any obstructions and strictures in a patient who has been appropriately prepped and anesthetized. This is done to determine the length of the stent that the patient requires.

The provider may introduce a guide wire to help with introducing the stent and performing dilation of the site if necessary. Using an endoscopic approach, the provider places a stent at the site of obstruction to remove the stricture. Dilation may be performed before or after stent placement or both.

In cases where the obstruction is severe, the provider may use a balloon catheter to remove it. The catheter is placed at the site of the obstruction and then inflated, thereby removing the blockage.

Once the procedure is complete, the provider removes the colonoscope. The patient may be monitored for a period of time before being discharged.

It is important to note that prior to undergoing the procedure, patients should inform their provider of any medical conditions or medications they are taking. They should also follow the pre-procedure instructions given to them to avoid any complications during the procedure.

After the procedure, patients may experience some discomfort or bloating, but this can usually be managed with medication. It is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by the provider.

In conclusion, the CPT code 44402 describes a procedure used to examine the colon for obstructions and strictures. It involves the use of a colonoscope inserted via a stoma to identify the site of obstruction and determine the length of the stent required. Dilation may also be performed to remove the obstruction. Patients should follow pre- and post-procedure instructions carefully to avoid complications.

Return to all the CPT codes for endoscopic stomal procedures.