AMA CPT® Assistant - 2018 Issue 4 (April)
Surgery: Hemic and Lymphatic Systems (Q&A) (April 2018)
April 2018 page 11 Surgery: Hemic and Lymphatic Systems Question : A patient presents with uterine serous carcinoma. The surgeon laparoscopically removed the uterus (weighing 475 g), the cervix, bilateral fallopian tubes and ovaries, and surrounding parametrial tissue. In addition, the surgeon completely removed the pelvic lymph nodes bilaterally and performed para-aortic lymph node sampling, as well as an omentectomy. The upper vagina was not removed. How should these procedures reported? Answer: Report new CPT code 38573 , Laparoscopy, surgical; with bilateral total pelvic lymphadenectomy and peri-aortic lymph node sampling, peritoneal washings, peritoneal biopsy(ies), omentectomy, and diaphragmatic washings, including diaphragmatic...
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Article Overview
This article reviews a surgical coding question involving laparoscopic removal of gynecologic organs with associated lymphatic and related procedures. It is aimed at coders, billers, and compliance professionals who need to understand how the April 2018 update addressed reporting for this type of operative scenario and how it relates to prior coding practice.
Why This Topic Matters
It highlights a CPT update relevant to complex laparoscopic oncology cases and explains the broader reporting context for combined surgical work in the hemic and lymphatic systems area.
Article Sections
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April 2018 page 11
An article page reference introducing the coding question and answer format for the topic covered.
What You Will Learn
- How the article frames a laparoscopic surgical coding question in the hemic and lymphatic systems area.
- What kind of CPT update the article discusses in relation to a gynecologic oncology procedure.
- How the article places the question in the context of prior reporting practices.
- The general scope of the operative components addressed in the case.
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Billing professionals
- Compliance staff
- Revenue cycle teams
- Physician practice staff
Codes Discussed
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