How To Use CPT Code 44238

CPT 44238 describes an unlisted laparoscopy procedure on the intestine, excluding the rectum. 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 44238?

CPT 44238 is used to report laparoscopic procedures on the intestine, excluding the rectum, that do not have a specific code. It is an unlisted code that is used when there is no other specific code available to describe the procedure performed by the provider.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44238 is: ‘Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, intestine (except rectum).’ This code is used when the provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine, excluding the rectum, that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine, excluding the rectum.
2. Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.
3. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide to provide better exposure.
4. A scope is inserted through one of the incisions to examine the abdomen.
5. Instruments are inserted through the other incisions to perform the procedure.
6. Ports are placed to keep the incisions open and are removed at the end of the procedure.
7. The small incisions are closed with staples or sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44238 is used when the provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine, excluding the rectum, that does not have a specific code. This code should only be used when there is no other appropriate code available to describe the procedure performed.

5. When to use CPT code 44238

CPT code 44238 should be used when the provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine, excluding the rectum, that does not have a specific code. It should not be used if there is a specific code available to describe the procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44238, the provider must include a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code. The cover letter should include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount. The operative notes or other relevant documentation should also be included to strengthen the claim and avoid a possible denial.

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44238, ensure that there is no other specific code available to describe the laparoscopic procedure performed on the intestine, excluding the rectum. Use the unlisted code only when necessary. Include a cover letter and relevant documentation to support the claim and justify the billing amount.

8. Historical information

CPT 44238 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2003. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the small intestine to remove a tumor.
2. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure on the large intestine to repair a perforation.
3. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine to treat a case of intestinal obstruction.
4. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure on the small intestine to remove a foreign body.
5. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the large intestine to treat a case of diverticulitis.
6. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine to treat a case of Crohn’s disease.
7. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the small intestine to treat a case of intestinal bleeding.
8. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure on the large intestine to remove a polyp.
9. A provider performs a laparoscopic procedure on the intestine to treat a case of intestinal adhesions.
10. A patient undergoes a laparoscopic procedure on the small intestine to treat a case of intestinal fistula.