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The procedure described by CPT® Code 44127 involves an enterectomy, which is a surgical resection of a segment of the small intestine. This specific procedure is performed to address congenital atresia, a condition characterized by a complete obstruction of the small intestine that leads to the dilation of the intestinal segment located proximal to the obstruction site. In cases of congenital atresia, the affected segment of the intestine cannot function properly, resulting in potential complications such as abdominal distension and hypertrophy of the pylorus. The surgical approach typically involves a midline incision in the abdomen, allowing the surgeon to access and inspect the abdominal contents, including vital organs such as the liver and gallbladder. During the procedure, the surgeon identifies the dilated section of the small intestine, carefully dissects it from surrounding tissues, and manages blood vessels through clamping and ligation. The obstructed segment is then excised, and the remaining proximal and distal segments of the intestine are joined together through anastomosis. A key aspect of this procedure is the tapering of the dilated proximal segment, which is achieved by creating folds on the lateral antimesenteric side, thereby facilitating a more effective connection between the two segments. This tapering technique distinguishes CPT® Code 44127 from similar codes, such as 44126, which does not involve tapering. The procedure is critical for restoring intestinal continuity and function in patients with congenital atresia.
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The procedure described by CPT® Code 44127 is indicated for the treatment of congenital atresia of the small intestine. This condition is characterized by the following:
The procedure for CPT® Code 44127 involves several critical steps to ensure successful resection and anastomosis of the small intestine:
Post-procedure care following an enterectomy for congenital atresia typically involves monitoring the patient for any signs of complications, such as infection or anastomotic leaks. Patients may require intravenous fluids initially and will gradually transition to oral intake as tolerated. Pain management is also an essential aspect of post-operative care. The recovery period may vary depending on the individual patient's condition and the extent of the surgery performed. Follow-up appointments are necessary to assess healing and ensure proper intestinal function.
| Short Descr | ENTERECTOMY W/TAPER CONG | Medium Descr | ENTRC RESCJ ATRESIA RESCJ & ANAST SGM W/TAPRING | Long Descr | Enterectomy, resection of small intestine for congenital atresia, single resection and anastomosis of proximal segment of intestine; with tapering | 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 | 75 - Small bowel resection |
This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.
| 44128 | Addon Code Modifier 63 Exempt MPFS Status: Active Code APC C Illustration for Code Enterectomy, resection of small intestine for congenital atresia, single resection and anastomosis of proximal segment of intestine; each additional resection and anastomosis (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure) |
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| 2013-01-01 | Changed | Medium Descriptor changed. |
| 2011-01-01 | Changed | Short description changed. |
| 2002-01-01 | Added | First appearance in code book in 2002. |
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