How To Use CPT Code 46705

CPT 46705 describes a plastic operation known as anoplasty, which is performed to treat the stricture or narrowing of the anus in infants. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 46705, including its official description, the procedure involved, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, and similar codes.

1. What is CPT Code 46705?

CPT 46705 is a code used to describe anoplasty, a surgical procedure performed to treat the stricture or narrowing of the anus in infants. This procedure involves reconstructing the anus to alleviate the narrowing and restore proper function.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 46705 is: ‘Anoplasty, plastic operation for stricture; infant.’ It is important to note that modifier 63 should not be reported in conjunction with this code, and for a simple incision of the anal septum, a different code, 46070, should be used.

3. Procedure

1. When performing anoplasty, the provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient, an infant in this case.
2. The provider then examines the anal canal to locate the stricture or narrowing.
3. Once the stricture is identified, the provider makes an incision in the dentate line, which divides the upper two-thirds and lower one-third of the anal canal.
4. The incision is extended up to the level of the rectal mucosa.
5. The anoplasty procedure involves moving the perianal skin to the area of the stricture.
6. This can be achieved through various techniques, such as transposing a flap, like V-Y plasty, or using an island flap.
7. The provider sutures the flap to the defect, effectively closing it and reconstructing the anus.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT code 46705 is specifically used for anoplasty procedures performed on infants with anal strictures. It is important to note that modifier 63 should not be reported with this code. For anoplasty procedures performed on adult patients, a different code, 46700, should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 46705

CPT code 46705 should be used when anoplasty is performed on an infant to treat anal strictures. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed on an infant and not an adult, as different codes apply in those cases.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 46705, the provider must document the following information:

• The diagnosis of anal stricture in an infant
• A detailed description of the anoplasty procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 46705, it is important to ensure that the procedure is performed on an infant and not an adult. Modifier 63 should not be reported with this code. It is also important to note that CPT code 46705 should not be reported with other codes unless specified by specific payer guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT code 46705 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. It is worth mentioning that in 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs an anoplasty on an infant with a stricture of the anus, effectively reconstructing the anal canal.
2. During the procedure, the provider makes an incision in the dentate line and sutures a flap to the defect, restoring proper function to the anus.
3. An infant undergoes an anoplasty procedure to treat a narrowing of the anus, resulting in improved bowel movements and overall quality of life.
4. A surgeon performs an anoplasty on an infant with a congenital anal stricture, successfully reconstructing the anus and alleviating the narrowing.
5. During the anoplasty procedure, the provider transposes a flap to the area of the stricture, effectively widening the anal canal and improving function.
6. An infant with an anal stricture undergoes an anoplasty procedure, resulting in improved bowel control and reduced discomfort.
7. A provider performs an anoplasty on an infant with a severe anal stricture, successfully reconstructing the anus and restoring normal function.
8. During the anoplasty procedure, the provider uses an island flap to repair the anal stricture, resulting in improved bowel movements for the infant.
9. An infant with a congenital anal stricture undergoes an anoplasty procedure, resulting in improved anal function and reduced risk of complications.
10. A surgeon performs an anoplasty on an infant with a complex anal stricture, successfully reconstructing the anus and improving overall quality of life.