How To Use CPT Code 57505

CPT 57505 describes the procedure of endocervical curettage, which involves the collection of tissue samples from the endocervix using a curette. This article will cover the description, official description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 57505?

CPT 57505 is used to describe the procedure of endocervical curettage, which involves the collection of tissue samples from the endocervix using a curette. This procedure is not performed as part of a dilation and curettage. It is typically done to obtain a specimen of the inner portion of the cervical canal for histological or cytological examination.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 57505 is: ‘Endocervical curettage (not done as part of a dilation and curettage).’ This code is used when the provider collects tissue samples from the endocervix using a curette, but the procedure is not part of a dilation and curettage.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed in a dorsal lithotomy position, and a speculum is inserted into the vagina to hold the vaginal walls apart.
2. The provider may apply acetic acid to the endocervix to visualize any abnormal tissue, which turns white when dried.
3. If necessary, the provider may also apply Lugol’s solution to the cervix to identify unstained tissue that needs to be sampled.
4. The provider performs endocervical curettage using a curette, scraping tissue from the inner portion of the cervical canal.
5. If there is any bleeding, the provider treats the site with silver nitrate or Monsel’s solution.
6. The speculum is then withdrawn, and the procedure is complete.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 57505 is performed when there is a need to obtain a specimen of the inner portion of the cervical canal for histological or cytological examination. It is typically done to evaluate abnormal tissue or to assist in the diagnosis of certain conditions. The procedure is not performed as part of a dilation and curettage.

5. When to use CPT code 57505

CPT code 57505 should be used when the provider performs endocervical curettage as a standalone procedure, separate from a dilation and curettage. It is important to ensure that the procedure is documented accurately and meets the criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 57505, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for performing endocervical curettage
• Details of the procedure, including the use of acetic acid or Lugol’s solution if applicable
• Any abnormal findings or areas of concern
• Treatment provided for bleeding, if necessary
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 57505, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the official description. The provider should not report CPT 57505 if it is performed as part of a dilation and curettage. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or coding guidelines.

8. Historical information

CPT 57505 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A gynecologist performs endocervical curettage to obtain a tissue sample for histological examination in a patient with abnormal cervical cells.
2. A pathologist performs endocervical curettage to collect tissue samples for cytological examination in a patient with suspected cervical cancer.
3. An obstetrician-gynecologist performs endocervical curettage to evaluate abnormal bleeding in a postmenopausal patient.
4. A nurse practitioner performs endocervical curettage to assist in the diagnosis of a patient with persistent abnormal Pap smear results.
5. A family physician performs endocervical curettage to obtain a tissue sample for further evaluation in a patient with suspected endocervical polyps.