How To Use CPT Code 46030

CPT 46030 describes the removal of an anal seton or other marker that has been placed for the treatment of an anal fistula. 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 46030?

CPT 46030 is used to describe the procedure of removing an anal seton or other marker that has been previously placed for the treatment of an anal fistula. This code is used when the provider makes an incision in the anal opening to locate the seton or marker, carefully incises it, and removes it from the fistula. The provider may also control any bleeding and place loose sutures at the opening of the anal canal if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 46030 is: ‘Removal of anal seton, other marker.’

3. Procedure

1. When performing CPT 46030, the provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. Next, the provider makes an incision in the anal opening to locate the anal seton or other marker that has been previously placed for the treatment of an anal fistula.
3. The provider carefully incises the seton or marker and pulls it to remove it from the fistula.
4. If there is any bleeding, the provider takes the necessary steps to control it.
5. In some cases, the provider may choose to place loose sutures at the opening of the anal canal to ensure proper healing.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 46030 is performed when there is a need to remove an anal seton or other marker that has been previously placed for the treatment of an anal fistula. An anal fistula is an abnormal passageway between structures, such as vessels, organs, or the skin and organs. The provider must carefully assess the patient’s condition and determine that the removal of the seton or marker is necessary for the patient’s treatment.

5. When to use CPT code 46030

CPT code 46030 should be used when the provider is performing the specific procedure of removing an anal seton or other marker that has been previously placed for the treatment of an anal fistula. This code should not be used for any other procedures or treatments.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 46030, the provider must document the following information:

• The reason for the removal of the anal seton or other marker
• The specific details of the procedure, including the incision made, the removal of the seton or marker, and any additional steps taken
• Any control of bleeding or placement of sutures, if applicable
• The date and time of the procedure
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 46030, ensure that the procedure performed matches the description of the code. It is important to accurately document and code the removal of the anal seton or other marker. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT code 46030 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT code 46030 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider removes an anal seton that was previously placed for the treatment of an anal fistula.
2. A patient undergoes a procedure to remove a marker that was used to treat an anal fistula.
3. A provider performs the removal of an anal seton to aid in the healing of an anal fistula.
4. An anal marker is removed by a provider to address an anal fistula.
5. A patient undergoes a procedure to remove a seton that was placed for the treatment of an anal fistula.
6. A provider performs the removal of an anal marker to improve the patient’s condition.
7. An anal seton is removed by a provider to promote healing of an anal fistula.
8. A patient undergoes a procedure to remove a marker that was previously placed for the treatment of an anal fistula.
9. A provider performs the removal of an anal seton to address an anal fistula.
10. An anal marker is removed by a provider to aid in the healing of an anal fistula.