How To Use CPT Code 59160

CPT 59160 describes the procedure known as curettage, postpartum, which involves the scraping of the endometrial lining of the uterus following childbirth. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 59160?

CPT 59160 is used to describe the curettage procedure performed by a healthcare provider after childbirth. This procedure involves the scraping of the endometrial lining of the uterus using a vaginal approach. It is typically done to remove any retained products of conception that may be causing postpartum bleeding.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 59160 is: ‘Curettage, postpartum.’ This code represents the surgical procedure in which the provider scrapes the endometrial lining of the uterus following childbirth.

3. Procedure

1. The patient is positioned in the lithotomy position, and anesthesia is administered.
2. A weighted speculum is inserted into the vagina, and the cervix is cleansed with an antiseptic solution.
3. The provider grasps the cervix with a tenaculum and uses a uterine sound to determine the size and position of the uterus.
4. A blunt curette, also known as a banjo curette, is inserted into the endocervical canal and then into the uterine cavity.
5. The provider carefully scrapes out any retained products of conception that may be causing postpartum bleeding.
6. If the procedure is performed after a cesarean delivery, the provider dilates the cervix before performing the curettage.
7. After the procedure, the instruments are removed, and any lacerations are treated to ensure there is no additional bleeding.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 59160 is performed in the postpartum period to address postpartum bleeding caused by retained products of conception. It is typically done following a vaginal delivery, but it can also be performed after a cesarean delivery. The procedure is only performed when necessary and when other conservative measures have failed to control the bleeding.

5. When to use CPT code 59160

CPT code 59160 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the curettage procedure following childbirth to address postpartum bleeding caused by retained products of conception. It is important to ensure that the procedure is medically necessary and meets the criteria for its use.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 59160, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure, such as postpartum bleeding and the presence of retained products of conception
• Details of the procedure, including the use of anesthesia and any additional instruments or techniques employed
• Date and time of the procedure
• Any complications or additional treatments performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 59160, it is important to ensure that the procedure meets the necessary criteria and is supported by appropriate documentation. It should be reported as a separate procedure and not bundled with other services. If the procedure is performed with ultrasound guidance, report CPT code 76998 in addition to 59160. Familiarize yourself with the specific billing guidelines of the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate reimbursement.

8. Historical information

CPT 59160 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 healthcare provider performs curettage, postpartum, to address postpartum bleeding caused by retained products of conception following a vaginal delivery.
2. After a cesarean delivery, a provider performs curettage, postpartum, to remove any retained products of conception that may be causing postpartum bleeding.
3. A patient experiences excessive postpartum bleeding, and the healthcare provider performs curettage, postpartum, to address the issue.
4. Following childbirth, a provider performs curettage, postpartum, to ensure the removal of any retained products of conception and prevent postpartum bleeding.
5. A healthcare provider performs curettage, postpartum, to address persistent postpartum bleeding that has not resolved with conservative measures.
6. After a vaginal delivery, a provider performs curettage, postpartum, to remove any retained products of conception and control postpartum bleeding.
7. A patient presents with postpartum bleeding, and the healthcare provider performs curettage, postpartum, to address the issue and prevent further complications.
8. Following a cesarean delivery, a provider performs curettage, postpartum, to ensure the removal of any retained products of conception and control postpartum bleeding.
9. A healthcare provider performs curettage, postpartum, to address excessive postpartum bleeding and prevent complications.
10. After childbirth, a provider performs curettage, postpartum, to remove any retained products of conception and promote healing.