How To Use CPT Code 47715

CPT 47715 describes the excision of a choledochal cyst, which is a sac-like abnormality in the bile duct. 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 47715?

CPT 47715 is used to describe the excision of a choledochal cyst, which is an abnormal cystic dilatation in the bile duct that is present at birth. The procedure involves removing the cystic abnormality to restore the flow of bile through the duct.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47715 is the excision of a choledochal cyst. There are no additional notes or modifiers specified for this code.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient.
2. An incision is made in the abdomen to access the bile duct.
3. The surrounding structures are dissected to identify the choledochal cyst.
4. The provider carefully excises the cyst to remove it.
5. The area is irrigated to ensure cleanliness and checked for any bleeding.
6. Any instruments used during the procedure are removed, and the incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47715 is performed on patients with a choledochal cyst, which is an abnormal cystic dilatation in the bile duct present at birth. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary expertise in performing excisions on the biliary tract.

5. When to use CPT code 47715

CPT code 47715 should be used when a provider performs the excision of a choledochal cyst. It is important to ensure that the patient has a documented diagnosis of a choledochal cyst and that the procedure is performed to remove the cystic abnormality in the bile duct.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 47715, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a choledochal cyst
• Description of the procedure performed, including the excision of the cyst
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional details or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 47715, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for excision of a choledochal cyst. It is important to use the appropriate diagnosis code to support the medical necessity of the procedure. Additionally, follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 47715 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has not undergone any updates or changes since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs an excision of a choledochal cyst in a newborn baby to restore the normal flow of bile.
2. A gastroenterologist performs an excision of a choledochal cyst in an adult patient who has been experiencing symptoms related to the cyst.
3. A pediatric surgeon performs an excision of a choledochal cyst in a child to prevent complications and improve the child’s overall health.
4. A hepatobiliary surgeon performs an excision of a choledochal cyst in a patient with a history of recurrent infections and abdominal pain.
5. A general surgeon performs an excision of a choledochal cyst in a patient who has been diagnosed with the cyst and is experiencing symptoms such as jaundice and abdominal discomfort.
6. A surgical team performs an excision of a choledochal cyst in a patient during a laparoscopic procedure to minimize invasiveness and promote faster recovery.
7. An interventional radiologist performs a percutaneous excision of a choledochal cyst using image guidance to ensure accuracy and minimize complications.
8. A hepatobiliary specialist performs an open excision of a choledochal cyst in a patient with a complex anatomy that requires a more extensive surgical approach.
9. A pediatric surgeon performs a laparoscopic-assisted excision of a choledochal cyst in an adolescent patient to minimize scarring and promote a quicker recovery.
10. A hepatobiliary surgeon performs a robotic-assisted excision of a choledochal cyst in a patient to take advantage of the precision and dexterity offered by robotic technology.