How To Use CPT Code 44310

CPT 44310 describes the procedure of ileostomy or jejunostomy, non-tube. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 44310?

CPT 44310 can be used to describe a surgical procedure in which a small loop or segment of the small intestine, either from the ileum or jejunum, is pulled through an open incision in the abdominal wall. This procedure is performed to create a stoma, or an opening on the skin, to provide direct access to the intestines for various reasons, such as emptying the intestines.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44310 is: ‘Ileostomy or jejunostomy, non-tube (separate procedure).’ This code should not be reported in conjunction with codes 44144, 44150-44151, 44155, 44156, 45113, 45119, or 45136.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an open incision in the abdomen over the target area.
2. They identify the small intestine site, either from the ileum or jejunum, and pass a segment of it out through the abdominal wall.
3. The segment is then stitched to the opening through the abdominal skin.
4. An incision is made into the intestine, creating a stoma that communicates with the opening in the skin.
5. The provider ensures hemostasis, removes any instruments, and closes the open surgical incision in layers, but not the stoma.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44310 is performed on patients who require an ileostomy or jejunostomy for various reasons, such as diverting waste through a stoma due to conditions like Crohn’s disease. It is important to note that this procedure should not be reported with certain other codes, as mentioned in the official description.

5. When to use CPT code 44310

CPT code 44310 should be used when a provider performs an ileostomy or jejunostomy procedure that does not involve a tube. It is important to follow the guidelines and not report this code in conjunction with the specified other codes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44310, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing the ileostomy or jejunostomy procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44310, ensure that the procedure performed is an ileostomy or jejunostomy without a tube. It is important to follow the guidelines and not report this code with the specified other codes. Additional tips for accurate billing may include considering the location of the procedure and understanding the difference between the professional and technical components of the service.

8. Historical information

CPT 44310 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition. However, it is worth noting that it was added under the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs an ileostomy procedure on a patient with Crohn’s disease to divert waste through a stoma.
2. A gastroenterologist performs a jejunostomy procedure on a patient with bowel obstruction to provide direct access to the intestines.
3. A general surgeon performs an ileostomy procedure on a patient with a severe gastrointestinal infection to allow for the emptying of the intestines.
4. A colorectal surgeon performs a jejunostomy procedure on a patient with a history of multiple abdominal surgeries to create an alternative route for nutrition.
5. A surgical team performs an ileostomy procedure on a patient with a perforated bowel to prevent further complications.
6. A pediatric surgeon performs a jejunostomy procedure on an infant with a congenital intestinal abnormality to improve their overall health and well-being.
7. An oncology surgeon performs an ileostomy procedure on a patient with colon cancer to divert waste and facilitate the healing process.
8. A surgical team performs a jejunostomy procedure on a patient with a severe gastrointestinal bleed to provide direct access for intervention and management.
9. A general surgeon performs an ileostomy procedure on a patient with a traumatic injury to the small intestine to allow for healing and recovery.
10. A gastroenterologist performs a jejunostomy procedure on a patient with malabsorption issues to improve their nutritional intake and overall health.