How To Use CPT Code 44203

CPT 44203 describes the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis performed by a provider after the initial procedure. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 44203?

CPT 44203 can be used to describe the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis performed by a provider after the initial procedure. This code is used when the provider resects an additional portion of the intestine and reconnects the cut ends in an end to end, end to side, or side to side manner, depending on the location of the resection.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44203 is: ‘Laparoscopy, surgical; each additional small intestine resection and anastomosis (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with the primary procedure code (44202) and is an add-on code.

3. Procedure

1. During the same session as the initial laparoscopic removal of a portion of the small intestine and reconnection of the ends, the provider performs an additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis.
2. The provider uses instruments and a scope inserted through tiny incisions in the patient’s abdomen to resect the additional portion of the intestine.
3. The cut ends of the intestine are then reconnected in an end to end, end to side, or side to side manner, depending on the location of the resection.
4. The provider ensures hemostasis and closes the abdominal incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44203 is used when the provider performs an additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis after the initial procedure. This code is used in conjunction with the primary procedure code (44202) and should not be reported without an appropriate primary code. It is important to note that CPT 44203 is an add-on code and should not be reported alone.

5. When to use CPT code 44203

CPT code 44203 should be used when the provider performs an additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis after the initial procedure. This code is used in conjunction with the primary procedure code (44202) and should not be reported without an appropriate primary code. It is important to follow the guidelines and not report CPT 44203 alone.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44203, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the primary procedure performed
• Description of the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the resection and anastomosis, including the location and method used
• Confirmation of hemostasis
• Closure of the abdominal incision

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44203, ensure that the primary procedure code (44202) is also reported. CPT 44203 is an add-on code and should not be reported without an appropriate primary code. It is important to follow the guidelines and not report CPT 44203 alone. Use modifier 51 to indicate multiple procedures performed during the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT 44203 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. There have been no updates to the code since its addition. It is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to the code in future editions.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs a laparoscopic removal of a portion of the small intestine and reconnection of the ends. During the same session, the surgeon identifies the need for an additional resection and anastomosis of another portion of the small intestine. The surgeon performs the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis using the appropriate instruments and techniques.
2. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis for the treatment of a gastrointestinal condition. During the same procedure, the surgeon discovers the need for an additional resection and anastomosis in a different area of the small intestine. The surgeon performs the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis to address the additional pathology.
3. Following the initial laparoscopic removal of a portion of the small intestine and reconnection of the ends, the surgeon identifies the need for an additional resection and anastomosis due to unforeseen complications. The surgeon performs the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis to address the complications and ensure proper healing.
4. A patient with a history of small intestine disease undergoes a laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis. During the same procedure, the surgeon discovers the need for an additional resection and anastomosis in a different area of the small intestine. The surgeon performs the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis to address the underlying disease and prevent future complications.
5. Following the initial laparoscopic removal of a portion of the small intestine and reconnection of the ends, the surgeon identifies the need for an additional resection and anastomosis to achieve optimal surgical outcomes. The surgeon performs the additional laparoscopic small intestine resection and anastomosis using advanced techniques and instruments.