How To Use CPT Code 44139

CPT 44139 describes the mobilization (take-down) of the splenic flexure performed in conjunction with a partial colectomy. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 44139?

CPT 44139 is used to describe the mobilization (take-down) of the splenic flexure, which is performed alongside a partial colectomy. This procedure involves preparing a suitable length of the colon by mobilizing the sharp bend between the transverse and descending colon, known as the splenic flexure. It is typically performed to facilitate partial resection of the colon.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44139 is: ‘Mobilization (take-down) of splenic flexure performed in conjunction with partial colectomy (List separately in addition to primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with primary procedure codes 44140 to 44147.

3. Procedure

1. During the same session as a partial colectomy, the healthcare provider performs the mobilization of the splenic flexure.
2. An abdominal incision is extended, and the tissues between the spleen and splenic flexure of the colon are dissected.
3. The dissection of the colon is extended to the descending colon, while preserving the omentum.
4. The lienocolic ligament, which connects the high part of the splenic flexure to the fibrous capsule surrounding the spleen, is carefully divided to free the splenic flexure.
5. Once all procedures for the session are complete, the incision in the abdomen is closed, and any instruments are removed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44139 is performed when the provider is already performing a separately reportable partial removal of the colon. The mobilization of the splenic flexure is done to prepare the colon for partial resection. It is important to note that this code should only be reported in conjunction with the appropriate primary procedure codes (44140 to 44147).

5. When to use CPT code 44139

CPT code 44139 should be used when the mobilization of the splenic flexure is performed alongside a partial colectomy. It is important to ensure that the primary procedure code for the partial colectomy is also reported. This code should not be reported without an appropriate primary code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44139, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the mobilization of the splenic flexure
• Details of the partial colectomy procedure
• Description of the steps taken to mobilize the splenic flexure
• Confirmation of the completion of all procedures for the session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44139, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed in conjunction with a partial colectomy. This code should not be reported without an appropriate primary procedure code. Payers will not reimburse for CPT 44139 if it is reported without the primary code. It is recommended to review the specific guidelines of the payer to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT 44139 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1995. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a partial colectomy and mobilizes the splenic flexure during the same session to prepare the colon for resection.
2. During a surgical procedure, the healthcare provider performs a partial removal of the colon and mobilizes the splenic flexure to facilitate the resection.
3. A patient undergoes a partial colectomy, and the surgeon mobilizes the splenic flexure to ensure an adequate length of the colon for the resection.
4. As part of a surgical intervention, the healthcare provider performs a partial removal of the colon and mobilizes the splenic flexure to prepare the colon for resection.
5. During a surgical procedure, the surgeon performs a partial colectomy and mobilizes the splenic flexure to optimize the resection of the colon.
6. A patient requires a partial removal of the colon, and the surgeon mobilizes the splenic flexure to prepare the colon for resection.
7. As part of a surgical intervention, the healthcare provider performs a partial colectomy and mobilizes the splenic flexure to ensure an appropriate length of the colon for resection.
8. A surgeon performs a partial removal of the colon and mobilizes the splenic flexure to facilitate the subsequent resection.
9. During a surgical procedure, the healthcare provider performs a partial colectomy and mobilizes the splenic flexure to optimize the resection of the colon.
10. A patient undergoes a partial colectomy, and the surgeon mobilizes the splenic flexure to prepare the colon for resection.