How To Use CPT Code 44661

CPT 44661 describes the closure of an enterovesical fistula, which is an abnormal passageway between the small intestines and the urinary bladder. 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 44661?

CPT 44661 is used to describe the closure of an enterovesical fistula, which involves the resection of the damaged portion of the intestine and/or bladder and the closure of the wound. This procedure is performed to treat or prevent infection and other complications associated with the abnormal passageway.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44661 is: ‘Closure of enterovesical fistula; with intestine and/or bladder resection.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision over the area of the abnormal passageway.
2. They then separate the intestines from the bladder.
3. If the area of the fistula formation cannot be repaired by suturing alone, the provider determines that excision is necessary.
4. The damaged portion of the intestine and/or bladder is resected.
5. The cut edges are then sutured together in layers.
6. After ensuring there is no bleeding, the provider closes the abdominal incision in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44661 is performed on patients with an enterovesical fistula, which is an abnormal passageway between the small intestines and the urinary bladder. This procedure is necessary when the fistula causes complications such as infection. It involves the resection of the damaged portion of the intestine and/or bladder and the closure of the wound.

5. When to use CPT code 44661

CPT code 44661 should be used when a provider performs the closure of an enterovesical fistula with intestine and/or bladder resection. It is appropriate to use this code when the procedure is performed to treat or prevent infection and other complications associated with the abnormal passageway.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44661, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of an enterovesical fistula
• Reason for performing the procedure, such as infection or other complications
• Details of the procedure, including the resection of the damaged portion of the intestine and/or bladder
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44661, ensure that the procedure performed is the closure of an enterovesical fistula with intestine and/or bladder resection. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and ensure accurate documentation to support the claim. It is important to review any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure proper reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 44661 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone changes, including a code change on January 1, 2002, which revised the description to include bowel and/or bladder resection. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs the closure of an enterovesical fistula with intestine resection to treat an infection in a patient.
2. A patient with an enterovesical fistula undergoes the closure procedure with bladder resection to prevent further complications.
3. The provider performs the closure of an enterovesical fistula with both intestine and bladder resection in a patient with recurrent infections.
4. A patient with an enterovesical fistula undergoes the closure procedure with intestine resection to alleviate symptoms and prevent infection.
5. The provider performs the closure of an enterovesical fistula with bladder resection in a patient with persistent urinary tract infections.
6. A patient with an enterovesical fistula undergoes the closure procedure with both intestine and bladder resection to address complications and improve overall health.
7. The provider performs the closure of an enterovesical fistula with intestine resection to treat an infection in a patient.
8. A patient with an enterovesical fistula undergoes the closure procedure with bladder resection to prevent further complications.
9. The provider performs the closure of an enterovesical fistula with both intestine and bladder resection in a patient with recurrent infections.
10. A patient with an enterovesical fistula undergoes the closure procedure with intestine resection to alleviate symptoms and prevent infection.