tci General Surgery Coding Alert - 2010 Issue 5

Reader Question: Use Most Specific 'Unlisted' Code

Question: How should I code laparoscopic Meckel's diverticulectomy? Should I use 44238 or 44899 or some other code?Ohio SubscriberAnswer: The best selection for laparoscopically removing Meckel's diverticulum is 44899 (Unlisted procedure, Meckel's diverticulum and the mesentery).Here's why: CPT arranges the codes in the digestive system chapter by organ or structure, so coding the unlisted procedure from the Meckel's diverticulum and mesentery section makes the most sense.Although you could make an argument for using the unlisted laparoscopy code (44238, Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, intestine [except rectum]), this probably isn't the best choice.Meckel's isn't really an intestinal structure...

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