How To Use CPT Code 0653T

CPT 0653T describes a specific procedure known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy, which involves the use of a flexible endoscope inserted through the nose to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples of CPT code 0653T.

1. What is CPT Code 0653T?

CPT 0653T is a code used to describe the procedure of esophagogastroduodenoscopy, which involves the insertion of a flexible endoscope through the nose to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. During this procedure, the healthcare provider may also collect one or more biopsy specimens for further analysis. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the transnasal approach of the procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 0653T is: ‘Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, flexible, transnasal; with biopsy, single or multiple.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure.
2. Using a flexible endoscope, the provider inserts the instrument through the patient’s nose and advances it into the esophagus.
3. The endoscope is then guided through the stomach and into the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.
4. During the procedure, the provider visually inspects the structures using the lighted tube of the endoscope.
5. If necessary, the provider collects one or more biopsy tissue specimens for further analysis.
6. Once the procedure is complete, the endoscope is carefully withdrawn.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 0653T is typically used for patients who require a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy. This procedure is performed for diagnostic purposes and may be necessary to evaluate conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders, ulcers, tumors, or other abnormalities in the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the transnasal approach, which distinguishes it from other methods of performing the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 0653T

CPT code 0653T should be used when a healthcare provider performs a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy. This code is appropriate when the provider inserts a flexible endoscope through the patient’s nose and examines the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, collecting one or more biopsy specimens if necessary. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description to accurately report CPT 0653T.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 0653T, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and the need for a transnasal approach
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a flexible endoscope and the examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
• Documentation of any biopsy specimens collected during the procedure
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional relevant findings or observations
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 0653T, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The use of a transnasal approach and the collection of one or more biopsy specimens should be documented. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or coding guidelines. It is recommended to review the complete billing guidelines and seek clarification if needed to ensure accurate reporting and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 0653T was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on July 1, 2021. As a relatively new addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code since its inclusion.

9. Examples

1. A gastroenterologist performs a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy to evaluate a patient with suspected gastric ulcers.
2. A physician uses a flexible endoscope inserted through the nose to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum of a patient with gastrointestinal bleeding, collecting biopsy specimens for further analysis.
3. A healthcare provider performs a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy on a patient with persistent abdominal pain to investigate potential causes.
4. A gastroenterologist uses a transnasal approach to perform an esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy on a patient with a history of gastrointestinal tumors.
5. A healthcare provider performs a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy to evaluate a patient with chronic acid reflux symptoms.
6. A physician uses a flexible endoscope inserted through the nose to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum of a patient with unexplained weight loss, collecting biopsy specimens for further analysis.
7. A gastroenterologist performs a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy to assess a patient with suspected celiac disease.
8. A healthcare provider uses a flexible endoscope inserted through the nose to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum of a patient with chronic gastritis, collecting biopsy specimens for further analysis.
9. A physician performs a transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy on a patient with a family history of gastrointestinal cancers.
10. A gastroenterologist uses a transnasal approach to perform an esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy on a patient with recurrent stomach ulcers.