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Code deleted, see 43278

Official Description

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP); with ablation of tumor(s), polyp(s), or other lesion(s) not amenable to removal by hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery or snare technique

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Common Language Description

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a specialized procedure that combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. This procedure is particularly indicated when there are tumors, polyps, or other lesions that cannot be removed using standard techniques such as hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery, or snare techniques. During ERCP, a flexible endoscope is inserted through the esophagus, traversing the stomach, and advancing into the duodenum until it reaches the Ampulla of Vater, where the pancreatic duct and common bile duct converge. At this juncture, a smaller catheter is introduced through the endoscope to cannulate the Ampulla of Vater, allowing for the injection of contrast dye into the ducts. This contrast dye facilitates the visualization of the common bile duct, biliary tract, gallbladder, and pancreas through x-ray imaging, which is captured immediately after the dye is injected. Following this, the catheter is maneuvered over a guidewire into the relevant ducts, enabling a thorough examination for any tumors, polyps, or lesions. If such lesions are identified, an ablation device is utilized to target and treat the lesions, employing methods other than those previously mentioned, thereby allowing for the removal of one or more lesions effectively.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with ablation is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Tumors Presence of tumors in the bile ducts or pancreatic duct that are not amenable to removal by standard techniques.
  • Polyps Identification of polyps within the biliary tract that require ablation rather than removal.
  • Other Lesions Any other lesions located in the bile ducts or pancreatic duct that cannot be effectively removed using hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery, or snare techniques.

2. Procedure

The procedure of ERCP with ablation involves several critical steps to ensure effective diagnosis and treatment:

  • Step 1: Endoscope Insertion The procedure begins with the insertion of a flexible endoscope through the patient's mouth, advancing it through the esophagus and stomach, and into the duodenum. This allows access to the area where the pancreatic duct and common bile duct converge, known as the Ampulla of Vater.
  • Step 2: Cannulation of the Ampulla of Vater Once the endoscope is positioned correctly, a smaller catheter is introduced through the endoscope. The clinician carefully cannulates the Ampulla of Vater to facilitate the next step.
  • Step 3: Injection of Contrast Dye Contrast dye is injected through the catheter into the bile ducts and pancreatic duct. This step is crucial as it enables visualization of the biliary tract, gallbladder, and pancreas on x-ray imaging.
  • Step 4: Imaging X-ray images are taken immediately after the contrast dye is injected, allowing for the assessment of the anatomy and identification of any abnormalities such as tumors, polyps, or lesions.
  • Step 5: Catheter Advancement The catheter is then advanced over a guidewire into the common duct, biliary tract, gallbladder, and/or pancreas, providing a thorough examination of these structures.
  • Step 6: Ablation of Lesions If any tumors, polyps, or other lesions are detected, an ablation device is inserted and advanced to the site of the lesion. The clinician then performs the ablation using techniques other than hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery, or snare, allowing for the effective treatment of the identified lesions.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the ERCP with ablation, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications. Post-procedure care may include observation for signs of bleeding, infection, or pancreatitis. Patients may experience some discomfort or mild sedation effects, and recovery time can vary. It is essential for healthcare providers to provide instructions regarding dietary restrictions and activity levels following the procedure, as well as to schedule any necessary follow-up appointments to assess the outcomes of the ablation and overall health status.

Short Descr ENDO CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPH
Medium Descr ERCP W/ABLTJ LES X RMVL FORCEPS/CAUT/SNARE
Long Descr Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP); with ablation of tumor(s), polyp(s), or other lesion(s) not amenable to removal by hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery or snare technique
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 3 - Special rules for multiple endoscopic 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) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Endoscopic Base Code 43260  Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP); diagnostic, including collection of specimen(s) by brushing or washing, when performed (separate procedure)
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 82 - Endoscopic retrograde cannulation of pancreas (ERCP)
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Notes
2014-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 43278
2002-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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