CPT® 2016: Nail Your Percutaneous Biliary Stent Coding With 4 Tips

Why This Topic Matters

Percutaneous biliary coding changed substantially in CPT® 2016, and the article helps readers understand where the new stent-related codes fit within the revised procedure framework. That matters for accurate code selection, appropriate unit reporting, and awareness of which associated services are addressed as bundled or separately reportable in CPT® notes.

Article Sections

1. Send Out the Old, Bring In the New

   Explains the 2016 transition in percutaneous biliary stent reporting and introduces the related new code family. The section also frames the access-based distinctions discussed in the article.

2. Distinguish ‘Catheter’ and ‘Stent’

   Reviews terminology used in biliary procedures and contrasts the broader catheter and stent categories discussed in CPT®-based guidance. It also points readers to the related drainage catheter code family.

3. Focus Units of Service

   Discusses how CPT® describes units of service for the percutaneous biliary stent codes and why session-level reporting is emphasized. The section also covers scenarios in which multiple services may be considered in a single encounter.

4. Learn Bundling Restrictions

   Summarizes the bundling and related-service notes associated with the updated percutaneous biliary procedure codes. It highlights the surrounding procedure categories and the broader policy context for the 2016 update.