How To Use CPT Code 47740

CPT 47740 describes the creation of a connection between the gallbladder and small intestine to allow for the drainage of bile in the presence of a blockage. 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 47740?

CPT 47740 involves the surgical procedure of creating an anastomosis, or connection, between the gallbladder and the small intestine in a Y-shaped fashion. This allows for the free flow of bile when there is a blockage due to a tumor or other biliary disease. The provider makes an incision in the abdomen, assesses the gallbladder and intestine, and stitches them together. The procedure enables the drainage of bile and helps alleviate the symptoms caused by the blockage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47740 is: ‘Cholecystoenterostomy; Roux-en-Y.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision in the abdomen.
2. They assess the gallbladder and the small intestine for any defects or abnormalities.
3. An incision is made in both structures, and a loop of the small intestine is brought up to the gallbladder.
4. The provider stitches the gallbladder and the small intestine together, creating a Y-shaped anastomosis.
5. The other free end of the small intestine is stitched to another part of the small intestine, completing the anastomosis.
6. The area is irrigated, checked for bleeding, and any instruments are removed.
7. The incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47740 is performed when there is a blockage in the bile duct due to a tumor or other biliary disease. The procedure allows for the drainage of bile by creating a connection between the gallbladder and the small intestine. It is important to note that this procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary expertise and training in performing cholecystoenterostomy.

5. When to use CPT code 47740

CPT code 47740 should be used when a provider performs a cholecystoenterostomy procedure to create a connection between the gallbladder and the small intestine. This code is appropriate when there is a blockage in the bile duct that requires surgical intervention. It is important to review the patient’s medical records and documentation to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for using CPT code 47740.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 47740, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s medical history and diagnosis indicating the need for the procedure
• Description of the procedure performed, including details of the anastomosis and any complications encountered
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same operative session
• Any post-operative care provided
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 47740, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for using this code. It is important to review the patient’s medical records and documentation to ensure accurate reporting. Additionally, be aware of any specific billing guidelines or requirements set forth by the payer or insurance company. It is also important to note that CPT code 47740 should not be reported with other codes that describe similar procedures or interventions.

8. Historical information

CPT code 47740 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement.

9. Examples

1. A patient with a blockage in the bile duct due to a tumor undergoes a cholecystoenterostomy procedure to create a connection between the gallbladder and the small intestine.
2. A provider performs a cholecystoenterostomy using a Roux-en-Y anastomosis to alleviate the symptoms caused by biliary disease.
3. A patient with a history of gallstones undergoes a cholecystoenterostomy to allow for the drainage of bile.
4. A provider performs a cholecystoenterostomy procedure to address a blockage in the bile duct caused by a tumor.
5. A patient with a biliary disease undergoes a cholecystoenterostomy to restore the flow of bile.
6. A provider performs a cholecystoenterostomy using a Y-shaped anastomosis to alleviate the symptoms caused by a blockage in the bile duct.
7. A patient with a history of biliary disease undergoes a cholecystoenterostomy to improve the drainage of bile.
8. A provider performs a cholecystoenterostomy procedure to address a blockage in the bile duct caused by a tumor.
9. A patient with a biliary disease undergoes a cholecystoenterostomy to restore the flow of bile.
10. A provider performs a cholecystoenterostomy using a Y-shaped anastomosis to alleviate the symptoms caused by a blockage in the bile duct.