How To Use CPT Code 45334

CPT 45334 describes the procedure of sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding, using any method. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 45334?

CPT 45334 is a code used to describe the procedure of sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding. This procedure involves the use of a flexible colonoscope, which is a tubular instrument with a light source and camera, to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The provider identifies the source of internal bleeding and then controls the bleeding using any appropriate method.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 45334 is: ‘Sigmoidoscopy, flexible; with control of bleeding, any method.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. They then insert a sigmoidoscope through the anus and advance it into the anal canal, rectum, and sigmoid colon.
3. The provider examines a portion of the descending colon up to the splenic flexure.
4. They inspect the internal surface of the rectum and sigmoid colon for the presence of bleeding.
5. If bleeding is identified, the provider uses an appropriate method to control the bleeding, such as cauterization or another suitable technique.
6. Finally, the provider removes all instruments and withdraws the sigmoidoscope.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 45334 is used when a provider performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding. This procedure is typically performed on patients who are experiencing internal bleeding in the rectum or sigmoid colon. It is important to note that CPT 45334 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT codes 45335 and 45350 for the same lesion, or with CPT code 45330.

5. When to use CPT code 45334

CPT code 45334 should be used when a provider performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding using any method. This code accurately describes the procedure and allows for appropriate billing and documentation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 45334, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding
• Details of the procedure, including the use of a flexible colonoscope and the specific method used to control bleeding
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 45334, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. It is important to note that CPT 45334 should not be reported in conjunction with CPT codes 45335 and 45350 for the same lesion, or with CPT code 45330. Follow the appropriate coding guidelines and modifiers to accurately report the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 45334 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. Prior to that, there was no specific code for sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding. Since its addition, there have been no updates or changes to the code.

9. Examples

1. A gastroenterologist performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding using bipolar cautery to treat a patient with rectal bleeding.
2. A colorectal surgeon uses laser therapy to control bleeding during sigmoidoscopy for a patient with sigmoid colon bleeding.
3. An interventional radiologist performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding using a stapler to treat a patient with bleeding in the rectum.
4. A general surgeon uses a plasma coagulator to control bleeding during sigmoidoscopy for a patient with bleeding in the sigmoid colon.
5. A gastroenterologist performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding using a heater probe to treat a patient with rectal bleeding.
6. A colorectal surgeon uses unipolar cautery to control bleeding during sigmoidoscopy for a patient with sigmoid colon bleeding.
7. An interventional radiologist performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding using injection therapy to treat a patient with bleeding in the rectum.
8. A general surgeon uses a laser to control bleeding during sigmoidoscopy for a patient with bleeding in the sigmoid colon.
9. A gastroenterologist performs sigmoidoscopy with control of bleeding using a stapler to treat a patient with rectal bleeding.
10. A colorectal surgeon uses bipolar cautery to control bleeding during sigmoidoscopy for a patient with sigmoid colon bleeding.