How To Use CPT Code 47381

CPT 47381 describes the procedure of cryosurgical ablation of one or more liver tumors through an open approach. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 47381?

CPT 47381 is used to describe the cryosurgical ablation of one or more liver tumors. This procedure involves the use of extreme cold to destroy abnormal tissue in the liver. The provider performs the cryosurgery through an open approach, making an incision in the upper abdomen to access the liver.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47381 is: ‘Ablation, open, of one or more liver tumor(s); cryosurgical.’ This code is used when the provider uses cryosurgery to ablate liver tumors through an open approach.

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring they are appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the upper abdomen to access the liver.
3. The provider dissects the structures surrounding the liver to locate the exact site of the tumor.
4. If necessary, the provider may perform a biopsy of the affected tissues and send the samples to pathology for further analysis.
5. A cryosurgical probe is introduced into the tumor, and the tissues are frozen for a specific period of time, such as 15 minutes.
6. The tissues are then allowed to warm, and this alternating cycle of freezing and warming leads to the destruction of the tumor.
7. The provider may treat more than one tumor during the same session.
8. Once the procedure is complete, the provider closes the incision in the abdomen with sutures in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47381 is performed on patients with one or more liver tumors that require cryosurgical ablation. The procedure is typically reserved for patients with abnormal growth of tissue or masses in the liver, which can be benign or cancerous. The provider must use cryosurgery as the method of ablation and perform the procedure through an open approach.

5. When to use CPT code 47381

CPT code 47381 should be used when the provider performs cryosurgical ablation of one or more liver tumors through an open approach. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the use of cryosurgery and an open approach.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 47381, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for cryosurgical ablation of liver tumors
• Details of the procedure, including the specific tumors treated and the use of cryosurgery
• Date of the procedure
• Incision site and approach used
• Any additional procedures performed, such as biopsy
• Any complications or adverse events
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 47381, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The provider must perform cryosurgical ablation of one or more liver tumors through an open approach. It is important to follow any additional guidelines provided by payers or coding authorities for accurate billing and reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 47381 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2002. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition. However, it is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to ensure accurate coding and billing.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a benign liver tumor undergoes cryosurgical ablation through an open approach.
2. A provider performs cryosurgical ablation on multiple liver tumors in a patient with liver cancer.
3. An individual with multiple liver tumors undergoes cryosurgical ablation as part of their treatment plan.
4. A patient with a malignant liver tumor receives cryosurgical ablation to destroy the tumor cells.
5. A provider performs cryosurgical ablation on a large liver tumor that is causing significant symptoms for the patient.
6. An individual with liver metastases undergoes cryosurgical ablation to target and destroy the tumors.
7. A patient with a recurrent liver tumor receives cryosurgical ablation to prevent further growth and spread.
8. A provider performs cryosurgical ablation on a liver tumor that is not responding to other treatment options.
9. An individual with liver tumors in multiple lobes undergoes cryosurgical ablation to target each tumor.
10. A patient with liver tumors undergoes cryosurgical ablation as part of a multimodal treatment approach.