How To Use CPT Code 44140

CPT 44140 describes the surgical procedure known as partial colectomy with anastomosis. 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 44140?

CPT 44140 is used to describe a surgical procedure called partial colectomy with anastomosis. This procedure involves the removal of a portion of the colon and the reconnection of the cut ends to restore continuity. It is typically performed when there is a need to remove a diseased or damaged section of the colon while preserving the overall function of the digestive system.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44140 is: ‘Colectomy, partial; with anastomosis.’ This code is used to report the surgical removal of a portion of the colon and the subsequent reconnection of the cut ends to restore continuity. It is important to note that for laparoscopic procedures, a different code, 44204, should be used.

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an incision over the target area of the colon.
2. Next, the surgeon mobilizes the colon and identifies the portion that needs to be removed.
3. The surgeon then transects the proximal and distal sites of the target colon portion to surgically remove it.
4. For the anastomosis part of the procedure, the surgeon reconnects the cut ends of the colon using techniques such as stapling.
5. Hemostasis, or control of bleeding, is ensured by the surgeon.
6. Finally, the surgeon closes the abdominal incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44140 is typically performed on patients who require the surgical removal of a portion of their colon due to a disease or condition. The procedure is performed by a qualified surgeon and involves the reconnection of the cut ends of the colon to restore continuity. It is important to note that CPT 44140 is not appropriate for laparoscopic procedures, as a different code, 44204, should be used in those cases.

5. When to use CPT code 44140

CPT code 44140 should be used when reporting the surgical procedure of partial colectomy with anastomosis. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the removal of a portion of the colon and the subsequent reconnection of the cut ends. If the procedure is performed laparoscopically, a different code, 44204, should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44140, the surgeon must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for partial colectomy
• Details of the surgical procedure, including the specific portion of the colon removed and the technique used for anastomosis
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44140, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The surgeon should use the appropriate code based on the specific details of the procedure performed. It is also important to follow any additional billing guidelines provided by the payer or relevant coding guidelines. If the procedure is performed laparoscopically, a different code, 44204, should be used instead.

8. Historical information

CPT 44140 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone no 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 with anastomosis on a patient with colon cancer.
2. A patient with diverticulitis undergoes a partial colectomy with anastomosis to remove the affected portion of the colon.
3. A surgeon performs a partial colectomy with anastomosis on a patient with ulcerative colitis.
4. A patient with a large polyp in the colon undergoes a partial colectomy with anastomosis to remove the polyp and restore colon continuity.
5. A surgeon performs a partial colectomy with anastomosis on a patient with a perforated colon.
6. A patient with Crohn’s disease undergoes a partial colectomy with anastomosis to remove the diseased portion of the colon.
7. A surgeon performs a partial colectomy with anastomosis on a patient with a colon obstruction.
8. A patient with a benign tumor in the colon undergoes a partial colectomy with anastomosis to remove the tumor.
9. A surgeon performs a partial colectomy with anastomosis on a patient with ischemic colitis.
10. A patient with a colon stricture undergoes a partial colectomy with anastomosis to relieve the obstruction.