How To Use CPT Code 38589

CPT 38589 describes a procedure performed on the lymphatic system that does not have a specific code. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 38589?

CPT 38589 is used to report procedures performed on the lymphatic system that do not have a specific code. It is used when there is no other existing CPT code that accurately represents the procedure being performed. This code allows healthcare professionals to accurately document and bill for these unique procedures.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 38589 is: ‘Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, lymphatic system.’ This code is used when there is no specific CPT code available to describe the procedure being performed on the lymphatic system.

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare professional performs a procedure on the lymphatic system that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.
2. The procedure may involve the examination of tissue removed from the lymphatic system to determine the cause or severity of a disease.
3. The lymphatic system is a network of organs, lymph nodes, ducts, and vessels that produce lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells that drains from the tissues into the blood.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 38589 is used when there is no specific CPT code available to accurately describe the procedure being performed on the lymphatic system. It is important to note that this code should only be used when there is no other appropriate code available. Healthcare professionals should not choose a code that only approximates the service provided.

5. When to use CPT code 38589

CPT code 38589 should be used when there is no other specific CPT code available to accurately describe the procedure being performed on the lymphatic system. It is important to follow CPT guidelines and choose the appropriate unlisted procedure code when no specific procedure or service code exists.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 38589, healthcare professionals must provide a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code. The cover letter should include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount being billed. Additionally, operative notes or other relevant documentation should be included to strengthen the claim and avoid possible denial.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 38589, healthcare professionals should ensure that there is no other specific code available to accurately describe the procedure being performed on the lymphatic system. It is important to follow CPT guidelines and report the service using only the appropriate unlisted procedure code. Healthcare professionals should also include a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code and provide supporting documentation to strengthen the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT code 38589 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2000. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare professional performs a laparoscopic procedure on the lymphatic system to examine tissue and determine the cause of a disease.
2. During the procedure, the healthcare professional removes lymphatic tissue for biopsy to assess the severity of a disease.
3. The procedure involves the examination of the lymphatic system to identify any abnormalities or diseases.
4. A healthcare professional performs a laparoscopic procedure to collect lymphatic fluid for analysis.
5. The procedure includes the examination of the lymphatic system to diagnose a specific condition.
6. A healthcare professional performs a laparoscopic procedure to remove lymph nodes for further examination.
7. The procedure involves the exploration of the lymphatic system to identify any potential issues or diseases.
8. A healthcare professional performs a laparoscopic procedure to assess the lymphatic system and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
9. The procedure includes the examination of the lymphatic system to guide further medical interventions.
10. A healthcare professional performs a laparoscopic procedure to investigate the lymphatic system and identify any abnormalities.