How To Use CPT Code 47370

CPT 47370 describes the laparoscopic surgical procedure of ablating one or more liver tumors using radiofrequency. This article will cover the official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 47370?

CPT 47370 is a code used to describe a laparoscopic surgical procedure in which a provider uses radiofrequency ablation to destroy one or more tumors in the liver. This code is specific to laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of liver tumors.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47370 is: ‘Laparoscopy, surgical, ablation of 1 or more liver tumor(s); radiofrequency.’ This code specifically refers to the use of laparoscopy and radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of liver tumors.

3. Procedure

1. During the laparoscopic procedure, the provider makes small incisions in the umbilicus or right upper abdomen.
2. A laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions to examine the structures surrounding the liver.
3. The provider insufflates the abdomen with gas to improve visualization of the site of interest.
4. Additional small incisions are made to insert a camera and instruments for the procedure.
5. The provider identifies the tumor site in the liver and performs a biopsy.
6. A radiofrequency ablation (RFA) probe is introduced into the tumor.
7. The provider applies electrical energy through the probe, causing the tissue to heat and leading to the destruction of the tumor.
8. Multiple tumors may be treated during the session.
9. The provider removes the probe, checks for bleeding, and closes the incisions with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47370 is used for patients who require laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation of one or more liver tumors. The procedure is typically performed on patients with liver tumors that are amenable to ablation and who are not candidates for surgical resection. The provider must use radiofrequency ablation as the method of tumor destruction.

5. When to use CPT code 47370

CPT code 47370 should be used when a laparoscopic surgical procedure is performed to ablate one or more liver tumors using radiofrequency. This code is specific to laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors and should not be used for other methods of tumor ablation or for open procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 47370, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for liver tumor ablation
• Details of the laparoscopic procedure, including the number and location of tumors treated
• Specific technique used for radiofrequency ablation
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 47370, ensure that the procedure performed is laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation of liver tumors. This code should not be reported for open procedures or for other methods of tumor ablation. If radiological guidance is used during the procedure, it should be reported separately using the appropriate code. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer when submitting claims for CPT 47370.

8. Historical information

CPT 47370 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. The code was later revised on January 1, 2010, with a change in the description to specify the use of radiofrequency for tumor ablation.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a single liver tumor undergoes laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation using CPT code 47370.
2. A provider performs laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation on multiple liver tumors in a single session, using CPT code 47370 for each tumor treated.
3. A laparoscopic procedure is performed to ablate a liver tumor using radiofrequency, and CPT code 47370 is reported.
4. A patient with multiple liver tumors undergoes laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation, and CPT code 47370 is used for each tumor treated during the procedure.
5. A provider performs laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation on a liver tumor, and CPT code 47370 is reported for the procedure.
6. A laparoscopic surgical procedure is performed to ablate a liver tumor using radiofrequency, and CPT code 47370 is used for the treatment.
7. CPT code 47370 is reported for a laparoscopic procedure in which a provider uses radiofrequency ablation to treat a liver tumor.
8. A patient undergoes laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation for a liver tumor, and CPT code 47370 is used to bill for the procedure.
9. A provider performs laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation on a liver tumor, using CPT code 47370 for the treatment.
10. CPT code 47370 is used to report a laparoscopic surgical procedure in which a provider ablates a liver tumor using radiofrequency.