How To Use CPT Code 43754

CPT 43754 describes the diagnostic procedure of gastric intubation and aspiration, specifically for obtaining a single specimen for analysis. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 43754?

CPT 43754 is a diagnostic procedure that involves the insertion of a tube into the stomach to obtain a single specimen for analysis. The provider instills fluid into the stomach and suctions it back out, sending the washings to the laboratory for further examination. This procedure is typically performed to determine the presence and amount of certain substances, such as gastric acid or gastrin, in the stomach fluid.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 43754 is: ‘Gastric intubation and aspiration, diagnostic; single specimen (eg, acid analysis).’ This code specifically refers to the collection of a single specimen for analysis through gastric intubation and aspiration.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring appropriate prepping and anesthesia.
2. The provider inserts a tube through the mouth or nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach.
3. Using the tube, the provider examines the stomach for any abnormalities or signs of bleeding.
4. The provider instills either saline or warm water into the stomach.
5. The stomach contents, along with the instilled fluid, are suctioned out through the tube.
6. The provider collects the suctioned fluid, which contains the single specimen, for further analysis in the laboratory.
7. After completing the aspiration, the provider removes the tube and checks for any potential injury as the tube is pulled out.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 43754 is performed for diagnostic purposes, specifically to obtain a single specimen for analysis. It is typically used when there is a need to determine the presence and amount of certain substances in the stomach fluid, such as gastric acid or gastrin. This procedure may be performed on patients who are experiencing symptoms related to abnormal stomach acid production or other gastric disorders.

5. When to use CPT code 43754

CPT code 43754 should be used when the provider performs gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for analysis. It is important to note that this code is specifically for the collection of a single specimen, and if multiple specimens are obtained for analysis, a different code, such as CPT 43755, should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 43754, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the procedure and the need for obtaining a single specimen
• Details of the procedure, including the method of insertion (through the mouth or nose), examination findings, and the type of fluid instilled
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Description of the specimen collected and its intended analysis
• Any complications or injuries encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 43754, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for analysis. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and provide accurate information to support the claim. Additionally, be aware of any specific guidelines or restrictions set by the payer regarding the use of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 43754 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2011. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient presents with symptoms of excessive stomach acid production. The provider performs gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for acid analysis.
2. A patient with suspected gastrinoma undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to collect a single specimen for gastrin level analysis.
3. A patient with a history of gastric ulcers undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for pH analysis of the stomach fluid.
4. A patient with unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to collect a single specimen for analysis to identify the source of bleeding.
5. A patient with suspected gastric cancer undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for cytological examination.
6. A patient with symptoms of malabsorption undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to collect a single specimen for analysis of pancreatic enzyme levels.
7. A patient with suspected gastric infection undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for bacterial culture and sensitivity testing.
8. A patient with suspected gastric acid hypersecretion undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to collect a single specimen for acid analysis and gastrin level measurement.
9. A patient with suspected gastric outlet obstruction undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to obtain a single specimen for analysis to assess for the presence of malignant cells.
10. A patient with unexplained weight loss undergoes gastric intubation and aspiration to collect a single specimen for analysis to evaluate for malabsorption or other underlying causes.