How To Use CPT Code 43289

CPT 43289 describes a laparoscopic procedure performed on the esophagus 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 43289?

CPT 43289 is used to report laparoscopic procedures performed on the esophagus that do not have a specific code. This code is used when the provider performs a procedure on the esophagus that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 43289 is not available. Please refer to the notes for any additional information.

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the esophagus that does not have a specific code.
2. The procedure may involve various steps and techniques depending on the specific needs of the patient and the condition being treated.
3. The provider uses minimally invasive techniques to access and treat the esophagus, reducing the risk of complications and promoting faster recovery.
4. The procedure may include the use of specialized instruments and equipment to perform the necessary interventions.
5. The provider ensures that the procedure is performed safely and effectively, taking into account the individual patient’s needs and circumstances.
6. The provider may document the specific details of the procedure in the operative notes to support the use of CPT code 43289.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 43289 is used when the provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the esophagus that does not have a specific code. This code should only be reported when there is no other specific procedure or service code available to accurately describe the service provided.

5. When to use CPT code 43289

CPT code 43289 should be used when the provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the esophagus that does not have a specific code. It is important to note that this code should only be used when there is no other specific procedure or service code available to accurately describe the service provided.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 43289, the provider should include the following documentation:

• A detailed description of the laparoscopic procedure performed on the esophagus
• Operative notes or other relevant documentation that provides a clear understanding of the procedure
• A cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code and comparing the service to similar codes

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 43289, it is important to follow these guidelines:

• Submit a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code
• Include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount
• Include the operative notes or other relevant documentation to strengthen the claim and avoid a possible denial

8. Historical information

CPT code 43289 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 provider performs a laparoscopic procedure to remove a foreign body from the esophagus.
2. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure to treat a benign esophageal tumor.
3. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure to repair a complex esophageal injury.
4. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure to treat severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
5. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure to remove a large esophageal polyp.
6. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure to treat a stricture in the esophagus.
7. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure to treat a motility disorder of the esophagus.
8. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure to remove a portion of the esophagus affected by cancer.
9. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure to treat a complication from a previous esophageal surgery.
10. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure to investigate the cause of chronic esophageal pain.