Removal of gastrostomy tube

[kathy a]

Our physician did a removal of a gastrostomy tube in the OR. Reading the CPT code descriptor and looking on-line ,CPT code # 43870 is an open surgical procedure requiring stitches. It also states, that if stitches were not used to use # 49999 the unlisted code? Some people have used # 43247 which is for an endoscopy with foreign body removal. I feel this is incorrect as to me a foreign body removal would be something that is stuck in the throat. If I use # 49999 code what would the fee be on this surgery? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks Kathy

 

[coachlang3]

The practice I work for uses the appropriate e/m code for a simple removal of g-tube.

 

[bridgettemartin]

We also use E/M codes.

 

[kathy a]

I could see using an E&M code if done in the office., but this was done in the OR??