decisionhealth Newsletters, Coder Pink Sheets - 2008 Issue 11 (November)
CPT 2009 adds six laparoscopic hernia repair codes
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.
Article Overview
This premium article explains selected CPT 2009 changes that affect gastroenterology and related surgical billing. It focuses on new laparoscopic hernia repair coding, related mesh language revisions, and several additional CPT additions, deletions, and revisions that matter to GI practices and other procedural coders. The discussion is useful for coders, billers, and compliance staff who need to stay current with annual code-set updates and understand the general scope of the changes.
Why This Topic Matters
Annual CPT changes can affect how common procedures are reported and how practices track coverage and reimbursement impacts. This article helps readers identify which 2009 updates may affect surgical and GI workflows without relying on the premium content.
Article Sections
-
Laparoscopic hernia repair updates
Introduces the new laparoscopic hernia repair code family and discusses the related revision to mesh placement language. It also addresses the broader distinction between hernia categories in the 2009 update.
-
Ventral, incisional lap codes split
Explains the organization of the new laparoscopic hernia repair codes and places them in context with prior open-procedure terminology. It also notes the timing of anticipated reimbursement guidance.
-
New lap esophagomyotomy code
Covers a new laparoscopic esophagomyotomy code and its relationship to other fundoplasty procedures. The section is aimed at GI coding relevance and procedure categorization.
-
Other new codes for GIs
Summarizes additional CPT 2009 additions, deletions, and revisions affecting GI-related procedures. It includes several endoscopic, anorectal, and rectal tumor coding updates.
-
Cat III TEMS rectal tumor excision code
Describes the Category III transanal endoscopic microsurgery code and its procedural context. The section also notes broader payer interest in the service.
What You Will Learn
- Which broad CPT 2009 areas changed for hernia repair and GI procedures
- How the article frames the relationship between laparoscopic and open procedure updates
- Which types of GI-related additions, deletions, and revisions are discussed
- Why the article considers some of the changes relevant to reimbursement and coverage review
- How Category III content is positioned within the overall update summary
Who Should Read This
- GI coders
- Surgical coders
- Medical billers
- Revenue cycle staff
- Compliance staff
- Practice managers
Codes Discussed
Code Ranges Discussed
Subscribe or sign in to view the full article.


Quick, Current, Complete - www.findacode.com