How To Use CPT Code 57180

CPT 57180 describes the introduction of a hemostatic agent or pack to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage. 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 57180?

CPT 57180 can be used to describe the introduction of a hemostatic agent or pack to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage. This code is used when a healthcare provider inserts a substance or gauze pack into the vagina to prevent excessive bleeding. The procedure is performed when the bleeding is not related to pregnancy or childbirth.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 57180 is: ‘Introduction of any hemostatic agent or pack for spontaneous or traumatic nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage (separate procedure).’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider positions the patient in the dorsal lithotomy position and inserts a speculum into the vaginal canal to inspect the area.
2. A hemostatic agent is then inserted into the vagina to stop the bleeding by enhancing blood clotting, or a gauze pack is placed to exert pressure on the vaginal walls and stop the bleeding.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 57180 is used when there is nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage that requires the introduction of a hemostatic agent or pack. The bleeding should not be related to pregnancy or childbirth. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to prevent excessive blood loss.

5. When to use CPT code 57180

CPT code 57180 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the procedure to introduce a hemostatic agent or pack to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage. It should not be used for bleeding related to pregnancy or childbirth.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 57180, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure, indicating nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage
• Details of the hemostatic agent used or the type of gauze pack inserted
• Date and time of the procedure
• Positioning of the patient and use of a speculum
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 57180, ensure that the procedure is performed to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage using a hemostatic agent or pack. It is important to note that this is a separate procedure, and payers may bundle it into other procedures performed on the genital organs unless it is reported as a stand-alone procedure. It is recommended to review payer guidelines for specific billing requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT 57180 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 inserts a hemostatic agent into the vagina to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage.
2. A gynecologist places a gauze pack into the vagina to exert pressure and control nonobstetrical vaginal bleeding.
3. A surgeon introduces a hemostatic agent to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage during a surgical procedure.
4. An emergency room physician inserts a gauze pack into the vagina to manage nonobstetrical vaginal bleeding caused by trauma.
5. A urologist uses a hemostatic agent to control nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage during a procedure to repair a vesicovaginal fistula.
6. A healthcare provider introduces a gauze pack to stop nonobstetrical vaginal bleeding following a diagnostic colpotomy.
7. A gynecologic oncologist inserts a hemostatic agent to control nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage during a procedure to remove a pelvic mass.
8. A general surgeon places a gauze pack into the vagina to manage nonobstetrical vaginal bleeding after the removal of a foreign body.
9. An interventional radiologist introduces a hemostatic agent to stop nonobstetrical vaginal hemorrhage during a procedure to embolize a pelvic artery.
10. A reproductive endocrinologist uses a gauze pack to control nonobstetrical vaginal bleeding following a procedure to remove an ectopic pregnancy.