How To Use CPT Code 44715

CPT 44715 describes the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft prior to transplantation, including the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein. 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 44715?

CPT 44715 can be used to describe the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft before transplantation. This code specifically includes the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein. It is important to note that this procedure is performed in a sterile environment separate from the operating table, where the provider prepares the graft before transplantation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44715 is: ‘Backbench standard preparation of cadaver or living donor intestine allograft prior to transplantation, including mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider examines the previously harvested small intestine allograft, which arrives in the operating room in a preservative solution.
2. Extraneous tissue, such as the duodenum and head of the pancreas, is removed from the graft.
3. The provider carefully mobilizes and frees up the superior mesenteric artery and vein, preparing them for anastomosis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44715 is used when a provider is preparing a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft for transplantation. The procedure involves the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein. It is important to note that this code specifically applies to the backbench standard preparation of the graft, and not the reconstruction of the venous or arterial anastomosis.

5. When to use CPT code 44715

CPT code 44715 should be used when a provider is performing the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft, including the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with codes 44720 or 44721, which specifically describe the reconstruction of the venous and arterial anastomosis, respectively.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 44715, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the procedure performed, including the backbench standard preparation of the intestine allograft
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein
• Any additional relevant information or findings during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 44715, ensure that the procedure performed is the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft, including the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein. It is important to note that this code should not be reported with codes 44720 or 44721. Additionally, it is essential to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or Medicare.

8. Historical information

CPT code 44715 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. It is important to note that there have been no updates to this code since its addition. In 2017, it was also added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performing the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver intestine allograft, including the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein, in preparation for transplantation.
2. A transplant team preparing a living donor intestine allograft for transplantation, including the mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein.
3. A provider performing the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver intestine allograft, ensuring the proper mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein for successful transplantation.
4. A surgical team preparing a living donor intestine allograft, meticulously mobilizing and fashioning the superior mesenteric artery and vein to ensure optimal outcomes.
5. A transplant surgeon performing the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver intestine allograft, carefully mobilizing and fashioning the superior mesenteric artery and vein to facilitate successful transplantation.
6. A provider preparing a living donor intestine allograft, skillfully mobilizing and fashioning the superior mesenteric artery and vein to ensure a successful transplantation procedure.
7. A surgical team performing the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver intestine allograft, meticulously mobilizing and fashioning the superior mesenteric artery and vein to optimize the chances of a successful transplantation.
8. A transplant surgeon preparing a living donor intestine allograft, skillfully mobilizing and fashioning the superior mesenteric artery and vein to ensure a successful transplantation procedure.
9. A provider performing the backbench standard preparation of a cadaver intestine allograft, carefully mobilizing and fashioning the superior mesenteric artery and vein to facilitate successful transplantation.
10. A surgical team preparing a living donor intestine allograft, ensuring the proper mobilization and fashioning of the superior mesenteric artery and vein for successful transplantation.