How To Use CPT Code 43283

CPT 43283 describes a laparoscopic esophageal lengthening procedure that is performed in conjunction with a primary procedure such as laparoscopic fundoplasty or paraesophageal hernia repair. 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 43283?

CPT 43283 is a code used to describe a laparoscopic esophageal lengthening procedure. This procedure is performed at the same time as a separately reportable laparoscopic fundoplasty or paraesophageal hernia repair. It is used when the provider needs to extend a short esophagus by using a laparoscopic stapler to taper the upper part of the stomach, creating a short tube that can act as an extension to the esophagus. This procedure is typically performed to treat conditions such as damage due to gastroesophageal reflux.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 43283 is: ‘Laparoscopy, surgical, esophageal lengthening procedure (eg, Collis gastroplasty or wedge gastroplasty) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)’. This code should be used in conjunction with the primary procedure codes 43280, 43281, or 43282.

3. Procedure

1. At the same session as a primary procedure of laparoscopic fundoplasty or repair of paraesophageal hernia, the provider performs esophageal lengthening by using a laparoscopic stapler to taper the upper part of the stomach.
2. This creates a short tube that can act as an extension to the esophagus.
3. The provider then continues with the separately reportable fundoplication procedure, wrapping the top part of the stomach around the esophagus.
4. Once all procedures are complete, the provider closes the incisions.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 43283 is used when the provider performs a laparoscopic esophageal lengthening procedure in conjunction with a primary procedure of laparoscopic fundoplasty or repair of paraesophageal hernia. This procedure is typically performed to extend a short esophagus and is used to treat conditions such as damage due to gastroesophageal reflux.

5. When to use CPT code 43283

CPT code 43283 should be used when the provider performs a laparoscopic esophageal lengthening procedure in addition to a primary procedure of laparoscopic fundoplasty or repair of paraesophageal hernia. It should not be reported without an appropriate primary code. This code is used to accurately describe the specific procedure performed and ensure proper reimbursement.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 43283, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the esophageal lengthening procedure
• Details of the primary procedure performed (laparoscopic fundoplasty or repair of paraesophageal hernia)
• Description of the esophageal lengthening procedure, including the use of a laparoscopic stapler to taper the upper part of the stomach
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 43283, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in conjunction with a primary procedure of laparoscopic fundoplasty or repair of paraesophageal hernia. This code is an add-on code and should not be reported without an appropriate primary code. It is important to follow payer guidelines and include all necessary documentation to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT code 43283 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2011. It has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic fundoplasty and esophageal lengthening procedure to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease.
2. A provider performs a laparoscopic repair of a paraesophageal hernia and includes an esophageal lengthening procedure to extend a short esophagus.
3. A laparoscopic fundoplasty and esophageal lengthening procedure is performed on a patient with a history of severe gastroesophageal reflux.
4. A provider performs a laparoscopic repair of a paraesophageal hernia and includes an esophageal lengthening procedure to treat a patient with a short esophagus.
5. A laparoscopic fundoplasty and esophageal lengthening procedure is performed on a patient with complications from gastroesophageal reflux.
6. A provider performs a laparoscopic repair of a paraesophageal hernia and includes an esophageal lengthening procedure to treat a patient with a short esophagus and hernia.
7. A laparoscopic fundoplasty and esophageal lengthening procedure is performed on a patient with a history of failed conservative treatment for gastroesophageal reflux.
8. A provider performs a laparoscopic repair of a paraesophageal hernia and includes an esophageal lengthening procedure to treat a patient with a short esophagus and hernia.