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Official Description

Revision of gastroduodenal anastomosis (gastroduodenostomy) with reconstruction; without vagotomy

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 43850 involves the revision of a gastroduodenal anastomosis, specifically a gastroduodenostomy, without the performance of vagotomy. A gastroduodenostomy is a surgical connection made between the stomach and the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. This procedure is typically indicated when there are complications at the site of the previous anastomosis, such as strictures or perforations. During the revision, the abdomen is surgically opened to allow for direct inspection of the anastomosis site. The specific steps taken during the revision depend on the underlying issue that necessitated the procedure. For instance, if a stricture is present, the muscular wall at the anastomosis may be incised longitudinally to relieve the narrowing, followed by a transverse repair of the stricture. In cases where a perforation has occurred, sutures are used to repair the damaged area. It is important to note that this particular code does not involve vagotomy, which is a procedure that entails cutting the vagus nerve to reduce acid production in the stomach, a step that is included in the related CPT® Code 43855. After the necessary revisions are made, the vagus nerve is identified and freed from surrounding tissues, and drains may be placed in the abdomen as required before closing the incision. This comprehensive approach ensures that the complications at the anastomosis site are effectively addressed while maintaining the integrity of the surrounding structures.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The revision of gastroduodenal anastomosis (gastroduodenostomy) is performed for specific indications that may arise due to complications at the anastomosis site. These indications include:

  • Stricture at the Anastomosis Site A narrowing of the anastomosis that can lead to obstruction and difficulty in food passage.
  • Perforation at the Anastomosis Site A tear or hole in the anastomosis that can result in leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, leading to potential infection and other serious complications.

2. Procedure

The procedure for revising a gastroduodenal anastomosis involves several critical steps, which are detailed as follows:

  • Step 1: Abdominal Opening The surgical team begins by making an incision in the abdomen to access the area of the previous gastroduodenal anastomosis. This allows for direct visualization and inspection of the anastomosis site to assess any complications that may be present.
  • Step 2: Inspection of the Anastomosis Site Once the abdomen is opened, the surgeon inspects the anastomosis site thoroughly. This inspection is crucial to identify the specific issue that necessitated the revision, such as a stricture or perforation.
  • Step 3: Addressing Stricture If a stricture is identified, the surgeon will incise the muscular wall of the anastomosis longitudinally. This incision helps to relieve the narrowing. Following this, the stricture is repaired transversely to restore the normal passage of food.
  • Step 4: Repairing Perforation In cases where a perforation is found, the surgeon will utilize sutures to repair the damaged area, ensuring that the integrity of the anastomosis is restored and preventing leakage.
  • Step 5: Vagus Nerve Management Although this procedure does not involve vagotomy, the vagus nerve is identified and freed from surrounding structures to ensure that it is not inadvertently damaged during the revision process.
  • Step 6: Drain Placement After completing the necessary repairs, the surgeon may place drains in the abdomen as needed to facilitate the removal of any excess fluid or to prevent complications post-surgery.
  • Step 7: Closing the Incision Finally, the abdominal incision is closed in layers, ensuring proper healing and minimizing the risk of infection.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the revision of a gastroduodenal anastomosis includes monitoring for any signs of complications, such as infection or leakage at the anastomosis site. Patients may require supportive care, including pain management and nutritional support, as they recover from surgery. The surgical team will provide specific instructions regarding activity restrictions and follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and assess the success of the revision.

Short Descr REVISE STOMACH-BOWEL FUSION
Medium Descr REVJ GASTRODUOL ANAST W/RCNSTJ W/O VAGOTOMY
Long Descr Revision of gastroduodenal anastomosis (gastroduodenostomy) with reconstruction; without vagotomy
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 Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 94 - Other OR upper GI therapeutic procedures
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2021-12-31 Deleted Code deleted
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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