How To Use CPT Code 59012

CPT 59012 describes a procedure known as cordocentesis, which involves the removal of blood from the fetal umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 59012?

CPT 59012 is used to report the procedure of cordocentesis, which involves the extraction of fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes. This code is utilized when a healthcare provider uses a needle and various methods, such as a transplacental or transamniotic approach, to remove blood from the fetal umbilical cord. Cordocentesis is performed to diagnose blood conditions and infections in the fetus.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 59012 is: ‘Cordocentesis (intrauterine), any method.’

3. Procedure

  1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient’s abdominal area and identifies the needle insertion site using ultrasound guidance.
  2. Using ultrasonic guidance, the provider inserts a needle through the abdomen and uterine walls to the umbilical cord.
  3. The provider withdraws fetal blood from the cord for diagnostic purposes.
  4. After completing the fetal blood sampling, the provider removes the needle and sends the sample to the laboratory for examination.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 59012 is performed on pregnant patients who require the extraction of fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes. The procedure is typically used to diagnose various blood conditions and infections in the fetus. It is important to note that cordocentesis does not include ultrasound guidance, although providers often use ultrasound imaging to guide the needle into position and withdraw the blood.

5. When to use CPT code 59012

CPT code 59012 should be used when a healthcare provider performs cordocentesis to extract fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes. It is important to ensure that the procedure is documented accurately and meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 59012, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

  • Reason for performing cordocentesis and the need for fetal blood extraction
  • Details of the specific method used for cordocentesis
  • Date of the procedure
  • Ultrasound guidance used, if applicable
  • Findings and results of the procedure
  • Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 59012, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. Providers should also consider reporting additional codes, such as 76941 for ultrasonic guidance, if applicable. It is important to review the billing guidelines and requirements of the specific payer to ensure accurate and appropriate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 59012 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

  1. A healthcare provider performs cordocentesis to extract fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes in a patient with suspected blood abnormalities.
  2. Using ultrasound guidance, a provider performs cordocentesis to obtain fetal blood for diagnostic testing in a patient with suspected fetal infections.
  3. A healthcare provider performs cordocentesis to extract fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes in a patient with suspected genetic disorders.
  4. Using a transplacental approach, a provider performs cordocentesis to obtain fetal blood for diagnostic testing in a patient with suspected fetal anemia.
  5. A healthcare provider performs cordocentesis to extract fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes in a patient with suspected chromosomal abnormalities.
  6. Using a transamniotic approach, a provider performs cordocentesis to obtain fetal blood for diagnostic testing in a patient with suspected fetal infections.
  7. A healthcare provider performs cordocentesis to extract fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes in a patient with suspected metabolic disorders.
  8. Using ultrasound guidance, a provider performs cordocentesis to obtain fetal blood for diagnostic testing in a patient with suspected fetal growth restriction.
  9. A healthcare provider performs cordocentesis to extract fetal blood from the umbilical cord for diagnostic purposes in a patient with suspected hematological disorders.
  10. Using a transplacental approach, a provider performs cordocentesis to obtain fetal blood for diagnostic testing in a patient with suspected fetal infections.

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