How To Use CPT Code 44135

CPT 44135 describes the procedure of intestinal allotransplantation, specifically from a cadaver donor. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 44135?

CPT 44135 is used to describe the surgical procedure of intestinal allotransplantation, specifically when the intestine is obtained from a cadaver donor. This code is used when the provider transects the affected portion of the recipient’s small bowel and then connects the ends of the recipient’s intestines using the cadaver donor intestine.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44135 is: ‘Intestinal allotransplantation; from cadaver donor.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes a midline abdominal incision from the xiphoid to the pubis.
2. Surrounding structures are dissected to reach the affected area of the small intestine.
3. The affected part of the small intestine is removed, and the free ends are prepared for connection to the transplant.
4. The small bowel harvested from the cadaver donor is grafted between the separated ends of the recipient’s incised small intestine.
5. The provider checks the circulation and may apply a drain at the site to assist with healing.
6. The wound is closed with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44135 is performed in patients suffering from Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract. The procedure is indicated when the patient’s small intestine is affected, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure. The provider must use a cadaver donor intestine for the transplantation.

5. When to use CPT code 44135

CPT code 44135 should be used when the provider performs intestinal allotransplantation using a cadaver donor intestine. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. If the procedure involves allotransplantation from a living donor, a different CPT code should be used.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44135, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and indication for intestinal allotransplantation
• Details of the procedure, including the specific steps performed
• Use of a cadaver donor intestine
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44135, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and use the appropriate CPT code for the specific circumstances. Be aware of any additional guidelines or modifiers that may be required for proper billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 44135 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. In 2017, it was added under the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A patient with Crohn’s disease undergoes intestinal allotransplantation using a cadaver donor intestine to alleviate symptoms and improve gastrointestinal function.
2. A provider performs intestinal allotransplantation from a cadaver donor in a patient with severe intestinal damage due to trauma.
3. A recipient with a congenital intestinal disorder receives an intestinal allotransplantation using a cadaver donor intestine to improve their quality of life.
4. A patient with a history of intestinal cancer undergoes intestinal allotransplantation from a cadaver donor as part of their treatment plan.
5. A provider performs intestinal allotransplantation in a patient with intestinal failure who is unable to absorb nutrients properly.
6. An individual with a rare genetic disorder undergoes intestinal allotransplantation using a cadaver donor intestine to address their specific condition.
7. A patient with a severe gastrointestinal infection undergoes intestinal allotransplantation from a cadaver donor to remove the affected portion of their small intestine.
8. A provider performs intestinal allotransplantation in a patient with a chronic inflammatory condition affecting their intestines, such as ulcerative colitis.
9. An individual with a history of multiple intestinal surgeries undergoes intestinal allotransplantation from a cadaver donor to restore proper intestinal function.
10. A recipient with a life-threatening intestinal disease receives an intestinal allotransplantation using a cadaver donor intestine to prolong their survival.