2025 CPT code 43351
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Digestive System Feed
Esophagostomy, fistulization of esophagus, external; thoracic approach.
Modifiers such as 22 (Increased Procedural Services), 51 (Multiple Procedures), and others may be applicable depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure.
Medical necessity should be established by documenting the underlying condition necessitating the esophagostomy, such as esophageal blockage, injury, or fistula, and its impact on the patient's health and ability to swallow.
The physician prepares the patient and performs the procedure, including incision, identification of the esophagus, creation of the fistula, connection to the external opening, and closure of the incision.
In simple words: This procedure creates a drainage passage from the esophagus to the outside of the body through the chest. This allows fluids to drain when there is a blockage or other problem with the esophagus.
Surgical creation of an opening into the esophagus through the chest wall, creating a fistula for drainage. The procedure involves making an incision in the chest, locating the esophagus, creating an opening in it, and connecting it to an opening created on the chest wall. This allows for the placement of a drainage appliance. The chest incision is then closed.
Example 1: A patient with esophageal cancer causing blockage requires an esophagostomy to allow for drainage and nutritional support., Following an esophagectomy (removal of part of the esophagus), an esophagostomy is created to manage drainage from the remaining portion of the esophagus., A patient with a severe esophageal injury develops a fistula requiring surgical intervention with an esophagostomy to facilitate healing.
Documentation should include the reason for the esophagostomy, surgical approach, details of the procedure, and any complications encountered.
- Specialties:Thoracic Surgery, General Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital