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The procedure described by CPT® Code 43045 refers to an esophagotomy performed via a thoracic approach, specifically involving the removal of a foreign body from the esophagus. In this surgical intervention, the esophagus is accessed through a right posterior thoracotomy, which is a surgical incision made in the back of the chest. This approach allows the surgeon to reach the esophagus while minimizing disruption to surrounding structures. The procedure begins with an incision in the skin, which is then extended through the underlying soft tissues. The scapula, or shoulder blade, is retracted to provide adequate access to the thoracic cavity without damaging the pleura, the membrane surrounding the lungs. Once the thorax is entered, retropleural dissection is performed, which involves carefully separating the tissues behind the pleura to gain access to the esophagus. The lung is retracted to further expose the esophagus, allowing the surgeon to locate the foreign body that is either incarcerated or impacted within the esophageal lumen. An incision is made in the esophagus at the site of the foreign body, enabling the surgeon to grasp the object with forceps and remove it carefully. After the foreign body is extracted, the esophagus is thoroughly inspected for any signs of tearing or injury, and repairs are made as necessary to ensure the integrity of the esophageal wall. Finally, the incision in the esophagus is closed, and the thoracic cavity is closed in a layered manner to promote proper healing and recovery.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The esophagotomy procedure described by CPT® Code 43045 is indicated for specific clinical situations where a foreign body is lodged in the esophagus, causing obstruction or potential injury. The following conditions may warrant this surgical intervention:
The procedure for esophagotomy with foreign body removal involves several critical steps, each designed to ensure safe access to the esophagus and effective removal of the foreign object:
After the esophagotomy procedure, patients typically require careful monitoring for any signs of complications, such as infection or leakage from the esophageal repair site. Post-operative care may include pain management, dietary modifications, and gradual reintroduction of oral intake as tolerated. The healthcare team will provide specific instructions regarding activity restrictions and follow-up appointments to ensure proper recovery and healing of the esophagus.
| Short Descr | ESOPHAGOTOMY THRC RMVL FB | Medium Descr | ESOPHAGOTOMY THORACIC APPR W/RMVL FB | Long Descr | Esophagotomy, thoracic approach, with removal of foreign body | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required... | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 94 - Other OR upper GI therapeutic procedures |
| 51 | Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d). | AS | Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician |
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| 2025-01-01 | Changed | Short Description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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