tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2021 Issue Q2

You Be the Coder: Distinguish GERD Esophageal Procedures

Question: Our surgeon performed a procedure to control the esophageal sphincter to treat a patient with GERD. The op note describes laparoscopic access to the lower esophageal sphincter with implantation of a “sphincter augmentation device.” Is this a fundoplication procedure that I should report with 43280? Missouri Subscriber Answer: No, the procedure you describe is considered an esophageal sphincter augmentation, which you should report as 43284 (Laparoscopy, surgical, esophageal sphincter augmentation procedure, placement of sphincter augmentation device (ie, magnetic band), including cruroplasty when performed). You are correct that the code for a laparoscopic fundoplasty is 43280 (Laparoscopy...

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