How To Use CPT Code 44340

CPT 44340 describes the revision of a colostomy, specifically the release of superficial scar tissue. 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 44340?

CPT 44340 can be used to describe the revision of a colostomy, specifically the release of superficial scar tissue. This code is used when the provider makes an incision around the stoma in the scar tissue, either by incising the scar tissue or performing a more extensive excision. The provider then reattaches the segment of colon to the stoma in the abdominal wall, which may include excising the end of the colon previously attached to the stoma and connecting the freshened end to the stoma.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44340 is: ‘Revision of colostomy; simple (release of superficial scar) (separate procedure)’

3. Procedure

1. The provider preps and anesthetizes the patient.
2. An incision is made around the stoma in the scar tissue.
3. The provider may incise the scar tissue or perform a more extensive excision.
4. The segment of colon is reattached to the stoma in the abdominal wall.
5. If necessary, the end of the colon previously attached to the stoma is excised and the freshened end is connected to the stoma.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible for CPT 44340 are those who have a colostomy and have developed superficial scar tissue around the stoma. The procedure is performed to release the scar tissue and improve the function of the colostomy. The provider must ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and not as an integral part of a larger procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 44340

CPT code 44340 should be used when the provider performs a revision of a colostomy by releasing superficial scar tissue. It should not be reported if the procedure is performed as part of a larger procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44340, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the presence of superficial scar tissue around the stoma
• Description of the procedure performed, including whether the scar tissue was incised or excised
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional details or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44340, ensure that the procedure is performed as a separate procedure and not as part of a larger procedure. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 44340 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider releases superficial scar tissue around a colostomy to improve its function.
2. A patient with a colostomy undergoes a revision procedure to release scar tissue that has formed around the stoma.
3. A provider performs a separate procedure to release superficial scar tissue and improve the function of a colostomy.
4. A patient with a colostomy requires a revision procedure to release scar tissue and enhance the functionality of the stoma.
5. A provider performs a separate procedure to release superficial scar tissue around a colostomy and improve its function.
6. A patient undergoes a revision procedure to release scar tissue that has developed around the stoma of their colostomy.
7. A provider performs a separate procedure to release superficial scar tissue and improve the function of a colostomy in a patient.
8. A patient with a colostomy requires a revision procedure to release scar tissue and enhance the functionality of the stoma.
9. A provider releases superficial scar tissue around a colostomy to improve its function.
10. A patient with a colostomy undergoes a revision procedure to release scar tissue that has formed around the stoma.