How To Use CPT Code 59870

CPT 59870 describes the procedure for uterine evacuation and curettage for hydatidiform mole. 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 59870?

CPT 59870 can be used to describe the procedure of uterine evacuation and curettage specifically for the removal of a hydatidiform mole. This code is used when a provider removes the overproduced tissue that was supposed to form the placenta through the vaginal canal.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 59870 is: ‘Uterine evacuation and curettage for hydatidiform mole.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is placed in a dorsal lithotomy position and given a general or regional anesthetic.
2. A weighted speculum is inserted, and the cervix is cleansed.
3. The provider gradually dilates the cervix using mechanical dilators.
4. A tenaculum is used to grasp and pull the cervix down.
5. The provider removes the hydatidiform mole and uses a sharp curette or a suction aspirator to remove the endometrial tissue lining the uterine cavity.
6. Once all tissue is removed, the instruments are withdrawn, and bleeding is controlled.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 59870 is performed when there is an overproduction of tissue that was supposed to form the placenta, resulting in a hydatidiform mole. The procedure is specifically for the removal of this abnormal tissue from the uterus. It is important to note that this code is not used for other types of uterine evacuations or curettages.

5. When to use CPT code 59870

CPT code 59870 should be used when a provider performs a uterine evacuation and curettage specifically for the removal of a hydatidiform mole. It should not be used for other indications or procedures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 59870, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a hydatidiform mole
• Procedure performed, including the specific technique used
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, such as the use of a speculum, cervical dilation, and tissue removal
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 59870, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically for the removal of a hydatidiform mole. It is important to use the appropriate diagnosis code to support the medical necessity of the procedure. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 59870 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 59870 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 provider performs a uterine evacuation and curettage to remove a hydatidiform mole from a patient.
2. A patient with a confirmed diagnosis of a hydatidiform mole undergoes a uterine evacuation and curettage procedure.
3. A provider performs a uterine evacuation and curettage specifically for the removal of a hydatidiform mole, documenting all necessary details.
4. A patient presents with symptoms of a hydatidiform mole and undergoes a uterine evacuation and curettage procedure for diagnosis and treatment.
5. A provider performs a uterine evacuation and curettage to remove a hydatidiform mole, ensuring accurate documentation for billing purposes.
6. A patient with a suspected hydatidiform mole undergoes a uterine evacuation and curettage procedure to confirm the diagnosis and remove the abnormal tissue.
7. A provider performs a uterine evacuation and curettage specifically for the removal of a hydatidiform mole, following all necessary guidelines and documentation requirements.
8. A patient with a confirmed diagnosis of a hydatidiform mole undergoes a uterine evacuation and curettage procedure to remove the abnormal tissue.
9. A provider performs a uterine evacuation and curettage to remove a hydatidiform mole, ensuring appropriate coding and documentation.
10. A patient with a suspected hydatidiform mole undergoes a uterine evacuation and curettage procedure for diagnosis and treatment, with accurate documentation for billing purposes.