Gastroenterology Coding Alert

READER QUESTIONS:

Call on 44385 for Pouchoscopy

Question: My gastroenterologist's documentation states that he performed a -pouchoscopy.- What is this, and how should I report it?


Texas Subscriber
Answer: During pouchoscopy, the GI physician introduces the scope into the rectum to visualize an ileoanal J pouch in the area of the small intestine. The appropriate code for this is 44385 (Endoscopic evaluation of small intestinal [abdominal or pelvic] pouch; diagnostic, with or without collection of specimen[s] by brushing or washing [separate procedure]).
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