AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS - 2016 Issue 2; Ask the Editor
Insertion of Peritoneal Totally Implantable Venous Access Device
A patient diagnosed with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer underwent placement of an intraperitoneal port-a-catheter during total abdominal hysterectomy. An incision on the costal margin in the midclavicular line on the right side was made, and a pocket was formed. A port was then inserted within the pocket and secured with stitches. The catheter was tunneled through the subcutaneous tissue and entered the abdomen adjacent to the umbilicus. The catheter was laid within the abdominal cavity. What is the correct code assignment for the intraperitoneal Port-A-Catheter/totally implantable central venous access device? ...
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This premium article reviews a case involving placement of an intraperitoneal port during major gynecologic surgery and explains the broader coding context for implantable access devices placed in the abdominal region. It is intended for coders handling operative reports, oncology-related procedures, and device placement documentation, and it focuses on how the procedure is characterized for coding purposes without reproducing the full decision process.
Why This Topic Matters
Placement of implantable access devices in unusual anatomic locations can create coding uncertainty, especially when the operative note includes both cancer surgery and device insertion. Understanding the correct procedural category helps support accurate reporting and consistent interpretation of operative documentation.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a peritoneal port placement case in the context of surgical coding.
- What kinds of operative details matter when reviewing documentation for an implantable access device.
- How the discussion distinguishes general device placement concepts from the final coding issue.
- The relevant procedure setting and anatomic context for the reported case.
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Oncology practice staff
- Hospital outpatient coders
- Physician billing staff
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com