How To Use CPT Code 47382

CPT 47382 describes the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of one or more liver tumors using a minimally invasive approach. This article will cover the description, official definition, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 47382?

CPT 47382 is used to describe the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of one or more liver tumors. This procedure involves using a minimally invasive approach through the skin to access the liver and destroy the tumors using radiofrequency energy.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47382 is the “Ablation, 1 or more liver tumor(s), percutaneous, radiofrequency.” This code specifically refers to the use of radiofrequency energy to ablate liver tumors through a percutaneous approach.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient.
2. Using imaging guidance such as CT, MRI, or ultrasound, the provider locates the site of the liver tumor(s).
3. A radiofrequency needle electrode is then inserted into the tumor(s) in the liver.
4. The provider applies electrical energy through the electrode, causing the tissue to heat up and destroy the tumor(s).
5. Multiple tumors can be treated during the same session.
6. After the ablation process is complete, the provider withdraws the needle from the liver and checks for hemostasis.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47382 is used for patients who require percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of one or more liver tumors. This procedure is typically performed on patients with liver tumors that are accessible through the skin. It is important to note that this code specifically refers to the percutaneous approach using radiofrequency energy.

5. When to use CPT code 47382

CPT code 47382 should be used when a provider performs percutaneous radiofrequency ablation on one or more liver tumors. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description, including the use of radiofrequency energy and the percutaneous approach.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 47382, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the medical necessity for the procedure
• Imaging guidance used to locate the liver tumor(s)
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Number of liver tumors treated
• Details of the ablation process, including the use of radiofrequency energy
• Confirmation of hemostasis

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 47382, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. The provider should use the appropriate modifiers if imaging guidance was used during the procedure. It is also important to follow any additional guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and timely reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT code 47382 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.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a single liver tumor undergoes percutaneous radiofrequency ablation using CPT code 47382.
2. A provider performs percutaneous radiofrequency ablation on multiple liver tumors in a single session, using CPT code 47382.
3. A patient with multiple liver tumors undergoes multiple sessions of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, with each session billed using CPT code 47382.
4. A provider uses imaging guidance, such as CT or MRI, to locate and ablate a liver tumor percutaneously, using CPT code 47382.
5. A patient with liver metastases undergoes percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of the tumors using CPT code 47382.
6. A provider performs percutaneous radiofrequency ablation on a liver tumor that is not accessible through an open surgical approach, using CPT code 47382.
7. A patient with a large liver tumor undergoes percutaneous radiofrequency ablation, with the procedure documented and billed using CPT code 47382.
8. A provider uses ultrasound guidance during the percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of a liver tumor, with CPT code 47382 reported for the procedure.
9. A patient with liver cancer undergoes percutaneous radiofrequency ablation as part of their treatment plan, with CPT code 47382 used for billing.
10. A provider performs percutaneous radiofrequency ablation on a liver tumor, documenting the details of the procedure and reporting CPT code 47382.