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The CPT® Code 43888 refers to a gastric restrictive procedure that is performed through an open surgical approach, specifically focusing on the removal and replacement of the subcutaneous port component only. This procedure is typically indicated when the existing port, which is a crucial component of a gastric banding system, is malfunctioning and cannot be repaired. The process begins with making an incision over the access port, allowing the surgeon to access the subcutaneous fat and the capsule surrounding the port. The port is then carefully exposed and inspected to assess its condition. If the port is found to be defective, it is removed from the abdominal wall, and the access tubing that connects the port to the gastric band is severed. A new access port is then introduced, connected to the existing tubing, and secured in place with sutures to the abdominal wall fascia. To ensure proper functionality, the new port is tested by injecting saline into the gastric band, which tightens it to the desired level. Finally, the surgical incisions are closed, completing the procedure. This operation is essential for maintaining the effectiveness of gastric banding in patients who rely on this method for weight management.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure described by CPT® Code 43888 is indicated for patients who have a malfunctioning subcutaneous port component of a gastric banding system. This may occur due to various reasons, including:
The procedure for CPT® Code 43888 involves several critical steps to ensure the successful removal and replacement of the subcutaneous port component:
After the completion of the procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications. Post-procedure care may include pain management, instructions for wound care, and guidelines for activity restrictions to promote healing. Patients may also be advised on dietary modifications and follow-up appointments to ensure the new port is functioning correctly and to monitor the effectiveness of the gastric banding system. It is essential for patients to adhere to these recommendations to facilitate a smooth recovery and maintain the intended benefits of the gastric restrictive procedure.
| Short Descr | CHANGE GASTRIC PORT OPEN | Medium Descr | GSTR RSTCV OPN RMVL & RPLCMT SUBQ PORT | Long Descr | Gastric restrictive procedure, open; removal and replacement of subcutaneous port component only | 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 | Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies | ASC Payment Indicator | Non office-based surgical procedure added in CY 2008 or later; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight. | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 244 - Gastric bypass and volume reduction |
| 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). | 52 | Reduced services: under certain circumstances a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified health care professional. under these circumstances the service provided can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 52, signifying that the service is reduced. this provides a means of reporting reduced services without disturbing the identification of the basic service. note: for hospital outpatient reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use). | 78 | Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.) | 80 | Assistant surgeon: surgical assistant services may be identified by adding modifier 80 to the usual procedure number(s). | AS | Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery | GA | Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | SG | Ambulatory surgical center (asc) facility service |
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Notes
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Medium Descriptor changed. |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 2006-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 2006. |
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