AHA Coding Clinic® for HCPCS - 2026 Issue 2; Ask the Editor
Needle-Knife Stricturoplasty
A patient with an esophageal stricture presented for treatment. A needle-knife stricturoplasty and balloon dilation via esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) were performed. The endoscope was inserted and advanced into the second part of the duodenum, revealing a benign esophageal intrinsic stricture measuring 2 cm in length. The scope could not initially traverse the stenosis.A needle-knife stricturoplasty was performed with partial opening of the stenosis. A 10-12 mm CRE balloon dilator was then introduced, and the stricture was progressively dilated to 12 mm. An additional needle-knife stricturoplasty was performed. The dilation site was inspected and there was moderate mucosal damage without deep injury. At the end of the procedure, the scope was able to traverse the stenosis.Is it appropriate to report both the needle-knife stricturoplasty and the balloon dilation, or is the stricturoplasty considered integral to the dilation? What is the correct CPT code(s) for the procedure(s) performed? ...
To read the full article, sign in and subscribe to the AHA Coding Clinic® for HCPCS.
Thank you for choosing Find-A-Code, please Sign In to remove ads.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com