How To Use CPT Code 44800

CPT 44800 describes the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum or omphalomesenteric duct. 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 44800?

CPT 44800 can be used to describe the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum or omphalomesenteric duct. This code is used when a provider removes these structures to treat or prevent bleeding or ulceration in the ileum. Meckel’s diverticulum is an outpouching or saclike structure in the wall of the ileum, while the omphalomesenteric duct is a remnant of the umbilical duct that connects the embryo to the mother’s circulation.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 44800 is: ‘Excision of Meckel’s diverticulum (diverticulectomy) or omphalomesenteric duct.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the midline abdominal area or the right lower quadrant.
3. The provider isolates and removes the Meckel’s diverticulum or omphalomesenteric duct, clamping it at the base.
4. If necessary, a part of the ileum may also be removed.
5. The provider sutures the incisions in the ileum and checks for bleeding.
6. The abdominal incision is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 44800 is performed when there is a need to remove Meckel’s diverticulum or omphalomesenteric duct to treat or prevent bleeding or ulceration in the ileum. The procedure is typically performed on patients with these specific conditions.

5. When to use CPT code 44800

CPT code 44800 should be used when a provider performs the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum or omphalomesenteric duct. It is important to ensure that the procedure is necessary to treat or prevent bleeding or ulceration in the ileum.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 44800, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the excision
• Details of the procedure, including the specific structures removed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as removal of a part of the ileum
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 44800, ensure that the procedure performed is the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum or omphalomesenteric duct. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and ensure accurate documentation to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 44800 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum in a patient with recurrent bleeding in the ileum.
2. A pediatric surgeon removes an omphalomesenteric duct in an infant with persistent symptoms of infection.
3. A gastroenterologist performs the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum in a patient with ulceration in the ileum.
4. A general surgeon removes an omphalomesenteric duct in a patient with abdominal pain and evidence of inflammation in the ileum.
5. A colorectal surgeon performs the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum in a patient with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding.
6. A pediatric surgeon removes an omphalomesenteric duct in a newborn with an abnormal umbilical cord.
7. A gastrointestinal surgeon performs the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum in a patient with recurrent abdominal pain.
8. A general surgeon removes an omphalomesenteric duct in a patient with a suspected intestinal obstruction.
9. A pediatric surgeon performs the excision of Meckel’s diverticulum in a child with chronic diarrhea.
10. A colorectal surgeon removes an omphalomesenteric duct in a patient with a suspected gastrointestinal tumor.