How To Use CPT Code 44721

CPT 44721 describes the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft prior to transplantation, specifically focusing on the arterial anastomosis. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 44721, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and examples.

1. What is CPT Code 44721?

CPT 44721 is used to describe the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft before transplantation, with a specific focus on the arterial anastomosis. This procedure involves the examination and preparation of previously harvested small intestine, including the preparation of the artery for anastomosis.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44721 is: ‘Backbench reconstruction of cadaver or living donor intestine allograft prior to transplantation; arterial anastomosis, each.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider examines the donor intestine, removing any extraneous tissue such as the duodenum and head of the pancreas.
2. Duplicate arteries are identified and an arteriotomy is made in the primary artery.
3. The duplicate artery is attached at the arteriotomy using sutures, leaving a single artery for anastomosis to the recipient artery.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44721 is performed when a backbench reconstruction of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft is necessary before transplantation. This procedure specifically focuses on the arterial anastomosis. The patient may receive an allograft from a cadaver or a living donor, and the provider must ensure that the graft is suitable for transplantation.

5. When to use CPT code 44721

CPT code 44721 should be used when the provider performs the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft, specifically focusing on the arterial anastomosis. This code is appropriate for each arterial anastomosis performed during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44721, the provider must document the following information:

• Details of the backbench reconstruction procedure, including the examination and preparation of the donor intestine
• Description of the arterial anastomosis performed
• Documentation of any complications or additional procedures performed during the backbench reconstruction
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44721, ensure that the procedure involves the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver or living donor intestine allograft, specifically focusing on the arterial anastomosis. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers when reporting this code. Additionally, consider any applicable bundling or unbundling rules when reporting CPT 44721 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 44721 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2005. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any future revisions or modifications to ensure accurate coding and billing.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver intestine allograft, focusing on the arterial anastomosis.
2. A transplant team prepares a living donor intestine allograft for transplantation, performing the arterial anastomosis during the backbench reconstruction.
3. A provider performs the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver intestine allograft, ensuring a successful arterial anastomosis before transplantation.
4. A surgical team performs the backbench reconstruction of a living donor intestine allograft, focusing on the arterial anastomosis to ensure a successful transplantation.
5. A specialist performs the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver intestine allograft, meticulously performing the arterial anastomosis for a patient awaiting transplantation.
6. A transplant surgeon performs the backbench reconstruction of a living donor intestine allograft, skillfully performing the arterial anastomosis to ensure a successful transplantation.
7. A surgical team prepares a cadaver intestine allograft for transplantation, performing the arterial anastomosis during the backbench reconstruction.
8. A provider performs the backbench reconstruction of a living donor intestine allograft, focusing on the arterial anastomosis to ensure a successful transplantation.
9. A surgeon performs the backbench reconstruction of a cadaver intestine allograft, meticulously performing the arterial anastomosis for a patient awaiting transplantation.
10. A transplant team prepares a living donor intestine allograft for transplantation, performing the arterial anastomosis during the backbench reconstruction.