How To Use CPT Code 44136

CPT 44136 describes the procedure of intestinal allotransplantation, specifically from a living donor. 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 44136?

CPT 44136 is used to describe the surgical procedure of intestinal allotransplantation, where the affected portion of a recipient’s small bowel is transected and replaced with intestine from a living donor. This procedure is typically performed on patients with Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal tract and causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and weight loss. Intestinal allotransplantation involves connecting the ends of the recipient’s small intestine using intestine from a living donor.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44136 is: ‘Intestinal allotransplantation; from living donor.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes a midline abdominal incision from the xiphoid to the pubis.
2. The 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 a living donor is sutured between the separated ends of the recipient’s small intestine.
5. The circulation is checked, and a drain may be applied at the site to aid in healing.
6. The wound is closed in layers with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44136 is performed on patients with Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The procedure involves the use of intestine from a living donor to replace the affected portion of the recipient’s small intestine. It is important to note that this procedure is specific to intestinal allotransplantation from a living donor and should not be confused with other related procedures.

5. When to use CPT code 44136

CPT code 44136 should be used when performing intestinal allotransplantation using intestine from a living donor. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44136, the following documentation should be included:

• Patient’s diagnosis of Crohn’s disease
• Description of the procedure performed, including the use of intestine from a living donor
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44136, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the official description. It should be reported accurately and supported by appropriate documentation. It is also important to review any additional guidelines or requirements from insurance payers to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 44136 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A patient with Crohn’s disease undergoes intestinal allotransplantation using intestine from a living donor.
2. During the procedure, the provider removes the affected portion of the small intestine and replaces it with intestine from a living donor.
3. An incision is made from the xiphoid to the pubis, and the surrounding structures are dissected to access the affected area of the small intestine.
4. The provider sutures the donor’s intestine between the separated ends of the recipient’s small intestine and checks the circulation.
5. The wound is closed in layers with sutures, and the patient is monitored for post-operative recovery.
6. Intestinal allotransplantation is performed on a patient with Crohn’s disease to alleviate symptoms and improve overall gastrointestinal function.
7. The procedure involves the use of intestine from a living donor to replace the affected portion of the recipient’s small intestine.
8. After the procedure, the patient undergoes post-operative care and is closely monitored for any complications.
9. The provider ensures that the patient receives appropriate follow-up care and support for a successful recovery.
10. Intestinal allotransplantation is a complex procedure that requires a skilled surgical team and careful coordination between the recipient and living donor.