Gastroenterology Coding Alert

Specific prolonged reading code will help focus claims In addition to the new colonoscopy codes and Stretta codes, sources indicate that CPT will also make several revisions to its gastroesophageal reflux test code group next year.

"The changes in the codes of measuring esophageal pH reflect newer technology that assesses the severity of reflux disease by measuring impedance, or measuring pH, without the need for a nasal catheter," says Michael Weinstein, MD, a gastroenterologist in Washington, D.C., and former member of the CPT advisory panel. 

Note: The telemetry pH electrode device is better known as the BRAVO capsule.

Beginning on Jan. 1, CPT will likely begin to accept the following new codes:

91034 - Esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux test; with nasal catheter pH electrode(s) placement,   recording, analysis and interpretation

91035 - Esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux test; with mucosal attached telemetry pH electrode placement, recording, analysis and interpretation

91037 - Esophageal function test, gastroesophageal reflux test with nasal catheter intraluminal impedance electrode(s) placement, recording, analysis and interpretation

91038 - Esophageal function test, gastroesophageal reflux test with nasal catheter intraluminal impedance electrode(s) placement, recording, analysis and interpretation; prolonged (greater than 1 hour, up to 24 hours). Coder's comment: "The great news is that code 91038 states 'greater than one hour, up to 24 hours.' (Previous gastroesophageal reflux test codes) didn't have very clear guidelines on the amount of time. This should make coders' lives a little easier," says Linda Parks, MA, CPC, CMC, CCP, an independent coding consultant in Marietta, Ga.

Heads-up: In 2005, you will need to use those codes to report reflux testing, because CPT will also delete 91032 (Esophagus, acid reflux test, with  intraluminal pH electrode for detection of gastroesophageal reflux) and 91033 (Esophagus, acid reflux test, with intraluminal pH electrode for detection of gastroesophageal reflux; prolonged recording).