How To Use CPT Code 47125

CPT 47125 describes the surgical procedure known as hepatectomy, specifically the total left lobectomy of the liver. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 47125?

CPT 47125 is used to describe a surgical procedure called hepatectomy, which involves the resection of a portion of the liver. In particular, this code represents the total left lobectomy, where the entire left lobe of the liver is removed. This procedure is typically performed to address conditions such as metastatic cancer, hepatic adenomas, large hemangiomas, or severe liver trauma.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47125 is: ‘Hepatectomy, resection of liver; total left lobectomy.’

3. Procedure

1. The surgeon begins by making an upper midline abdominal incision to access the liver.
2. Once the liver is exposed, the affected part of the liver, which is the entire left lobe in this case, is carefully separated from the surrounding tissues.
3. The surgeon identifies and clamps the portal and hepatic vessels associated with the left lobe.
4. The liver parenchyma, or the functional part of the liver, is divided and separated using pressure or coagulation hemostasis.
5. After removing the portal clamp, the surgeon ensures hemostasis and proceeds to close the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47125 is performed when there is a need to remove the entire left lobe of the liver due to conditions such as metastatic cancer, hepatic adenomas, large hemangiomas, or severe liver trauma. The procedure is typically carried out by a qualified surgeon and requires the use of an upper midline abdominal incision. It is important to note that the decision to perform a total left lobectomy is based on the patient’s specific condition and the surgeon’s clinical judgment.

5. When to use CPT code 47125

CPT code 47125 should be used when a surgeon performs a total left lobectomy, which involves the complete removal of the left lobe of the liver. This code accurately represents the specific procedure and should be reported accordingly. It is important to review the medical documentation and confirm that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided by CPT code 47125.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 47125, the medical documentation should include the following information:

• Reason for the hepatectomy and the need for a total left lobectomy
• Details of the surgical procedure, including the approach and technique used
• Confirmation of the complete removal of the left lobe of the liver
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same surgical session
• Any complications or unexpected findings encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the performing surgeon

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 47125, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the description provided. It is important to accurately document the medical necessity and appropriateness of the total left lobectomy. Additionally, review any specific billing guidelines or requirements from the payer to ensure proper reimbursement. It is also essential to avoid reporting CPT code 47125 if other related codes, such as CPT codes 47100-47130, have already been reported for the same surgical session.

8. Historical information

CPT code 47125 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates or revisions since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or modifications to the code in future editions of the CPT manual.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a total left lobectomy of the liver due to metastatic cancer.
2. A surgeon performs a total left lobectomy to address a large hemangioma in the liver.
3. A hepatectomy is carried out, involving the total left lobectomy, to treat hepatic adenomas.
4. A patient with severe liver trauma undergoes a total left lobectomy as part of the surgical intervention.
5. A total left lobectomy is performed to remove a large tumor in the left lobe of the liver.
6. A surgeon performs a total left lobectomy to address a complex case of liver disease.
7. A patient with a history of liver conditions undergoes a total left lobectomy for therapeutic purposes.
8. A total left lobectomy is performed as a preemptive measure to prevent the spread of cancer in the liver.
9. A surgeon carries out a total left lobectomy to address a life-threatening condition in the liver.
10. A patient undergoes a total left lobectomy to improve overall liver function and health.