How To Use CPT Code 49426

CPT 49426 describes the procedure for the revision of a peritoneal-venous shunt. 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 49426?

CPT 49426 can be used to describe the revision of a peritoneal-venous shunt performed by a healthcare provider. This code is used when the provider identifies a problem with an existing shunt and performs a repair or replacement procedure to correct the issue.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 49426 is: ‘Revision of peritoneal-venous shunt.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient.
2. An incision is made over the problem area of the shunt.
3. The provider accesses the shunt by incising through the subcutaneous and scar tissue.
4. The provider may repair, replace, or relocate the shunt depending on the specific issue.
5. If infection is present, the provider may apply or instill an antibiotic at the site.
6. The provider reconnects the components of the shunt and checks for appropriate flow.
7. Hemostasis is achieved to stop any bleeding.
8. Instruments are removed, and the wound is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 49426 is performed when a peritoneal-venous shunt requires revision due to a problem or malfunction. The procedure is typically performed by a healthcare provider who has identified the issue with the shunt. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 49426

CPT code 49426 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a revision procedure on a peritoneal-venous shunt. This code is appropriate when there is a problem with the shunt that requires repair, replacement, or relocation. It should not be used for initial placement of a peritoneal-venous shunt or for other types of shunt revisions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 49426, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Description of the problem with the existing shunt
• Details of the repair, replacement, or relocation procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed, such as applying or instilling antibiotics
• Confirmation of appropriate flow through the shunt
• Confirmation of achieved hemostasis
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 49426, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a peritoneal-venous shunt revision. Use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and accurately report the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 49426 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs a revision procedure on a peritoneal-venous shunt due to a blockage.
2. A patient with a malfunctioning peritoneal-venous shunt undergoes a repair procedure performed by a surgeon.
3. A provider replaces a peritoneal-venous shunt that has become dislodged in a patient.
4. A healthcare provider relocates a peritoneal-venous shunt to a different location in the patient’s body.
5. A patient with an infected peritoneal-venous shunt undergoes a revision procedure with the application of antibiotics.
6. A surgeon performs a revision procedure on a peritoneal-venous shunt to correct a kink in the tubing.
7. A healthcare provider repairs a peritoneal-venous shunt that has developed a leak.
8. A patient with a malfunctioning peritoneal-venous shunt undergoes a replacement procedure performed by a specialist.
9. A provider performs a revision procedure on a peritoneal-venous shunt to correct a blockage caused by scar tissue.
10. A surgeon relocates a peritoneal-venous shunt to a different location in the patient’s body to improve its function.