How To Use CPT Code 43341

CPT 43341 describes the surgical procedure known as esophagojejunostomy, which involves the creation of an artificial connection between the esophagus and the jejunum. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 43341, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and similar codes.

1. What is CPT Code 43341?

CPT 43341 is a code used to describe the surgical procedure called esophagojejunostomy. This procedure involves the creation of an artificial connection between the esophagus, which is the muscular tube that carries substances from the pharynx to the stomach, and the jejunum, which is the second part of the small intestine. The purpose of this procedure is to ensure an uninterrupted gastrointestinal tract for the patient.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 43341 is: ‘Esophagojejunostomy (without total gastrectomy); thoracic approach.’

3. Procedure

1. During the esophagojejunostomy procedure, the provider makes an incision in the chest to access the esophagus.
2. The affected portion of the esophagus is excised, and the lower part of the stomach is also removed.
3. The provider then sutures the remaining part of the stomach to the esophagus and sutures the upper jejunum of the small intestine to this structure.
4. If there was a previous jejunostomy for feeding, the provider removes and repairs the jejunum.
5. In some cases, the procedure may also involve connecting part of the duodenum to the jejunum and closing the other end of the duodenum.
6. The provider may check for anastomotic leaks using dye or air and ensures hemostasis.
7. Finally, the incision in the chest is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 43341 is performed when the patient requires an esophagojejunostomy without total gastrectomy. This procedure is typically indicated for patients with specific conditions that necessitate the creation of an artificial connection between the esophagus and the jejunum. It is important to note that the thoracic approach is used for this procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 43341

CPT code 43341 should be used when the provider performs an esophagojejunostomy without total gastrectomy using a thoracic approach. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 43341, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the esophagojejunostomy procedure
• Details of the thoracic approach used
• Description of the specific steps performed during the procedure
• Any additional procedures or repairs performed, such as the removal and repair of a previous jejunostomy
• Confirmation of hemostasis and any checks for anastomotic leaks
• Closure of the chest incision

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 43341, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure to support the billing. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or requirements from insurance providers or payers.

8. Historical information

CPT code 43341 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient with esophageal cancer undergoes an esophagojejunostomy procedure using a thoracic approach to create an artificial connection between the esophagus and the jejunum.
2. A provider performs an esophagojejunostomy without total gastrectomy on a patient with a benign esophageal stricture using a thoracic approach.
3. An individual with a history of esophageal trauma requires an esophagojejunostomy procedure to restore the continuity of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. A patient with a congenital esophageal anomaly undergoes an esophagojejunostomy using a thoracic approach to improve their digestive function.
5. A provider performs an esophagojejunostomy without total gastrectomy on a patient with a severe esophageal motility disorder using a thoracic approach.
6. An individual with a history of esophageal surgery requires an esophagojejunostomy procedure to address complications and restore normal gastrointestinal function.
7. A patient with a malignant esophageal tumor undergoes an esophagojejunostomy using a thoracic approach to improve their quality of life and nutritional intake.
8. A provider performs an esophagojejunostomy without total gastrectomy on a patient with a perforated esophagus using a thoracic approach to repair the damage and restore normal function.
9. An individual with a history of radiation therapy for esophageal cancer requires an esophagojejunostomy procedure to address strictures and improve their ability to swallow.
10. A patient with a complex esophageal fistula undergoes an esophagojejunostomy using a thoracic approach to close the fistula and restore normal gastrointestinal function.