How To Use CPT Code 91133

CPT 91133 describes the diagnostic procedure of transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 91133?

CPT 91133 can be used to describe the diagnostic procedure of transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing. This code is used when a provider measures the electrical activity of the stomach muscles using electrodes placed on the surface of the abdomen. The procedure involves recording the myoelectrical activity of the stomach and small intestine when they contract and relax. Provocative testing is performed by administering drugs or stimuli to provoke a normal gastric response, and the provider records the myoelectrical activity during this process. The purpose of this procedure is to evaluate for possible motility disorders.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 91133 is: ‘Electrogastrography, diagnostic, transcutaneous; with provocative testing.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the procedure.
2. Electrodes are placed on the surface of the abdomen over the area of the stomach and small intestine.
3. The provider records the electrical activity generated by the stomach and intestinal muscles when they contract and relax.
4. Provocative testing is performed by administering drugs or stimuli to provoke a normal gastric response.
5. The provider records the myoelectrical activity of the stomach during the provocative testing.
6. Once a satisfactory recording is obtained, the provider removes the electrodes.
7. The recorded data is analyzed and interpreted by the provider.
8. A report is prepared based on the analysis and interpretation of the recorded data.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 91133 is performed for patients who require diagnostic evaluation of possible motility disorders. The procedure is appropriate for patients who may be experiencing symptoms related to abnormal gastric activity. The provider must perform transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing to qualify for this code.

5. When to use CPT code 91133

CPT code 91133 should be used when a provider performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing to evaluate for possible motility disorders. This code is specific to the diagnostic procedure and should not be used for therapeutic purposes.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 91133, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the procedure and symptoms experienced by the patient
• Details of the transcutaneous electrogastrography procedure, including electrode placement and recording of myoelectrical activity
• Description of the provocative testing performed and the drugs or stimuli administered
• Analysis and interpretation of the recorded data
• Preparation of a report based on the findings

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 91133, ensure that the procedure includes transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing. This code should not be reported without the provocative testing component. If reporting only the professional component, append modifier 26 to the code. If reporting only the technical component, append modifier TC to the code. Do not append modifiers if reporting a global service where one provider renders both the professional and technical components.

8. Historical information

CPT 91133 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2001. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A gastroenterologist performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing to evaluate a patient with chronic stomach pain and suspected motility disorder.
2. A pediatrician orders transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing for a child experiencing frequent episodes of nausea and vomiting.
3. A surgeon performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing on a patient with gastroparesis to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
4. An internist uses transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing to evaluate a patient with unexplained weight loss and gastrointestinal symptoms.
5. A gastroenterologist performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing on a patient with suspected functional dyspepsia to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
6. A provider performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing on a patient with suspected gastric motility disorder following gastric surgery.
7. A pediatric gastroenterologist orders transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing for a child with feeding difficulties and suspected gastrointestinal motility issues.
8. A provider performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing on a patient with suspected cyclic vomiting syndrome to evaluate gastric motility patterns during episodes.
9. An internist orders transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing for a patient with unexplained abdominal pain and suspected gastrointestinal motility disorder.
10. A gastroenterologist performs transcutaneous electrogastrography with provocative testing on a patient with suspected functional dyspepsia to assess gastric motility and guide treatment decisions.