How To Use CPT Code 47361

CPT 47361 describes the management of liver hemorrhage, including exploration of the hepatic wound, extensive debridement, coagulation and/or suturing, with or without packing of the liver. 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 47361?

CPT 47361 can be used to describe the management of liver hemorrhage by a healthcare provider. This procedure involves exploring the hepatic wound, performing extensive debridement, and using techniques such as coagulation and suturing to control bleeding. Packing of the liver may also be done if necessary.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47361 is: ‘Management of liver hemorrhage; exploration of hepatic wound, extensive debridement, coagulation and/or suture, with or without packing of liver.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure and ensures they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the upper abdomen on the right side to access the liver.
3. The provider carefully examines the liver and surrounding structures to identify any damage or hemorrhage.
4. If the wound is extensive, the provider performs debridement, removing any damaged or unhealthy tissues to promote healing.
5. To control bleeding, the provider may use techniques such as coagulation, suturing, or stapling to close the wound.
6. In some cases, packing of the liver may be necessary to further control bleeding.
7. Hemostasis is achieved to ensure there is no active bleeding from the incision or suture lines.
8. The site is flushed with saline solution to clean and irrigate the area.
9. The incision at the abdomen is closed with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47361 is used when a patient requires management of liver hemorrhage. This procedure is typically performed when there is significant bleeding from the liver due to trauma or other underlying conditions. The healthcare provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine the need for exploration, debridement, coagulation, and/or suturing of the hepatic wound. The procedure may also involve packing of the liver if necessary.

5. When to use CPT code 47361

CPT code 47361 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the management of liver hemorrhage, including exploration of the hepatic wound, extensive debridement, coagulation and/or suturing, with or without packing of the liver. This code is appropriate when the procedure is performed to control bleeding and manage the patient’s condition. It should not be used for other liver-related procedures or interventions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 47361, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and indication for the management of liver hemorrhage
• Details of the procedure performed, including exploration of the hepatic wound, debridement, coagulation, suturing, and packing (if applicable)
• Date of the procedure and duration
• Any complications or additional interventions performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 47361, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria described in the official description. The healthcare provider should document the necessary details to support the claim. It is important to review all codes within the range of repair procedures on the liver (47300-47362) to ensure accurate coding. Additionally, consider any specific guidelines provided by payers or coding authorities for proper reporting of this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 47361 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1996. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A trauma surgeon performing the management of liver hemorrhage, including exploration of hepatic wound, extensive debridement, coagulation, and suturing for a patient with liver trauma.
2. A hepatobiliary surgeon managing liver hemorrhage, including exploration of hepatic wound, extensive debridement, coagulation, and suturing during a liver resection procedure.
3. An interventional radiologist performing the management of liver hemorrhage, including exploration of hepatic wound, coagulation, and packing for a patient with liver tumor rupture.