How To Use CPT Code 44799
CPT 44799 describes a procedure on the intestine that does not have an assigned code. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.
1. What is CPT Code 44799?
CPT 44799 is used to report new or unusual procedures on the intestine that do not have an assigned code. It is used when the provider performs a procedure on the intestine that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.
2. Official Description
The official description of CPT code 44799 is: ‘Unlisted procedure, small intestine.’ It is important to note that for unlisted laparoscopic procedures on the intestine except rectum, CPT code 44238 should be used. For unlisted procedures on the colon, CPT code 45399 should be used.
3. Procedure
- The provider performs a procedure on the small intestine that is not represented by any of the standard and active CPT codes available.
4. Qualifying circumstances
CPT 44799 can be used when there is a need to report a procedure on the small intestine that does not have a specific code assigned to it. This may occur when the procedure is new or unusual and does not fit into any existing code category. It is important to ensure that there is no other specific code available before using the unlisted procedure code.
5. When to use CPT code 44799
CPT code 44799 should be used when there is no specific code available to accurately describe the procedure performed on the small intestine. It is important to follow CPT guidelines and choose the unlisted procedure code only when there is no other specific procedure or service code that accurately represents the service provided.
6. Documentation requirements
To support a claim for CPT 44799, it is important to provide a cover letter explaining the reason for choosing the unlisted code instead of a defined, active code. The cover letter should include one or more similar codes and compare the service to those codes to justify the claim amount being billed. Additionally, operative notes or other relevant documentation should be included to strengthen the claim and avoid possible denial.
7. Billing guidelines
When billing for CPT 44799, it is important to submit a cover letter explaining the reason for using the unlisted code. The cover letter should compare the service to similar codes and provide supporting documentation. Payers will consider claims with unlisted procedure codes on a case-by-case basis and determine payment based on the documentation provided.
8. Historical information
CPT 44799 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone one change on January 1, 2015, when it was updated to specify that it is for procedures on the small intestine.
9. Examples
- A surgeon performs a new and innovative procedure on the small intestine to treat a rare condition.
- A gastroenterologist performs a complex procedure on the small intestine to remove a tumor.
- A pediatric surgeon performs a specialized procedure on the small intestine to correct a congenital abnormality.
- An interventional radiologist performs a minimally invasive procedure on the small intestine to treat a blockage.
- A general surgeon performs a revision procedure on the small intestine to address complications from a previous surgery.
