Advanced Search

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Mythbuster:

Bust 3 Myths for Simplified GERD Dx Test Coding

Published on Fri Aug 27, 2010

Find out why modifiers are out of the question for 91034.Whether your gastroenterologist refers to it as "acid reflux study" or "gastric motility study," she means the same diagnostic test for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). But other terms, such as "pH monitoring" and "gastric/esophageal manometry" prove to be as promising.Examine the following truths and fallacies surrounding GERD diagnostic testing, and be able to make the proper distinction.1. 'Motility' Links with Esophageal ManometryTruth. If the physician performs an esophageal "motility study," you have three codes to choose from. They are:91010 -- Esophageal motility (manometric study of the esophagus and/or gastroesophageal junction) study91011 -- ... with mecholyl or similar stimulant91012 -- ... with acid perfusion studies.Gastroenterologists have become more familiar with these esophageal manometry codes (91010-91012) since the procedure has become standard prior to surgery for GERD (530.81). CPT 91011 describes the basic test plus administration of a stimulant (to increase motility), while 91012 describes [...]
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Gastroenterology Coding Alert

View All