AMA CPT® Assistant - 2013 Issue 2 (February)
Surgery: Digestive System (Q&A) (February 2013)
February 2013 page 16b Surgery: Digestive System Question: There is some confusion as to whether the term "brush biopsy" for code 43200 , Esophagoscopy, rigid or flexible; diagnostic, with or without collection of specimen(s) by brushing or washing (separate procedure) , means that a biopsy was performed. Can you please clarify? Answer: Brushing is not a biopsy. The use of a "brush biopsy" constitutes a brushing or washing, and is reported with code 43200 . Surgery: Digestive System (Q&A) (February 2013). CPT® Assistant. 2013; February 2013 page 16b ...
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Article Overview
This short article answers a coding clarification question in the Surgery/Digestive System area of CPT. It is intended for coders and other revenue cycle professionals who need to understand how a specific specimen collection term is discussed in relation to one upper endoscopy code. The piece provides a focused clarification rather than a broad guideline update.
Why This Topic Matters
Digestive system coding often turns on precise procedural wording, so clarifying terminology helps coders avoid misunderstandings when reviewing operative documentation and selecting the appropriate CPT service.
What You Will Learn
- The article’s focus on a terminology clarification within digestive system coding
- How a brief Q&A format is used to address a CPT-related question
- The general context for an upper endoscopy-related reporting discussion
- Why precise wording in procedure documentation matters for coding review
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Revenue cycle staff
- Clinical documentation review teams
- Physician practice coders
Codes Discussed
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