2025 CPT code 44238
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Digestive System Surgery Feed
Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, intestine (except rectum).
Modifiers may be applicable to code 44238. Refer to current CPT guidelines for modifier usage.
Documentation should clearly establish the medical necessity of the procedure. This should include the patient's symptoms, diagnostic findings, and the rationale for choosing a laparoscopic approach. The documentation should support that less invasive procedures were considered, and that the performed procedure was the most appropriate option given the patient's condition.Supporting diagnoses may be critical in justifying the procedure to payers.
The physician performs a laparoscopic procedure on the small or large intestine (excluding the rectum) that does not have a dedicated CPT code.
In simple words: This code is used for a minimally invasive keyhole surgery on the intestines, except for the lower part called the rectum, when there's no specific code for the exact procedure done.
This code describes a laparoscopic procedure performed on the intestine, excluding the rectum, for which no specific CPT code exists.It involves inserting a laparoscope and other instruments through small incisions in the abdomen to perform the surgery.
Example 1: A patient presents with a Meckel's diverticulum causing bleeding.The surgeon performs a laparoscopic resection of the diverticulum, a procedure not otherwise specified in CPT.Code 44238 would be appropriate., During a laparoscopic exploration for abdominal pain, a small, symptomatic lipoma is found on the small intestine. It is laparoscopically resected. As there is no distinct code for this procedure, 44238 is reported., A patient requires laparoscopic lysis of adhesions on the small bowel, a procedure not defined by a more specific CPT code. The surgeon performs laparoscopic surgery.Since no other CPT code precisely describes this, 44238 would be reported.
Operative report detailing the procedure performed, including the specific location and nature of the procedure, the instruments used, and any complications encountered. Supporting documentation may also include pre-operative diagnostic tests, imaging studies, and any relevant consultations.
** When reporting 44238, a special report must accompany the claim to describe the procedure performed.This report helps justify the medical necessity of the service and the fee charged. The report should also cross-reference relevant codes and explain why they are not applicable, including those for open procedures.
- Revenue Code: P1G - Major Procedure - Other
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:General Surgery, Colon and Rectal Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center