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Official Description

Proctosigmoidoscopy, rigid; with removal of multiple tumors, polyps, or other lesions by hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery or snare technique

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A rigid proctosigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure that involves the examination of the rectum and the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon) using a rigid scope. This procedure is specifically designed for the removal of multiple tumors, polyps, or other lesions utilizing techniques such as hot biopsy forceps, bipolar cautery, or snare technique. During the procedure, an obturator is inserted into the scope, which is then introduced into the anus and advanced approximately 5 centimeters into the rectum. Once the obturator is removed, the eyepiece is attached to the scope, allowing for visualization. The scope is advanced further into the rectum, aided by air insufflation to separate the mucosal folds for better visibility. The scope is then maneuvered to the rectosigmoid junction and, if feasible, into the sigmoid colon. After thorough inspection of the mucosa, any identified tumors, polyps, or lesions can be addressed. The hot biopsy forceps method involves the use of insulated monopolar forceps that simultaneously remove and cauterize tissue, while bipolar cautery employs electrical current between two points on the forceps to achieve similar results. The snare technique involves placing a wire loop around the lesion, which is then heated to excise and cauterize the tissue. This procedure is particularly effective for the removal of multiple lesions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive treatment during a single session.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Multiple Tumors Removal of multiple tumors that may be present in the rectum or sigmoid colon.
  • Polyps Excision of multiple polyps that require intervention to prevent potential malignancy.
  • Other Lesions Treatment of various other lesions that may be identified during the examination.

2. Procedure

The procedure involves several key steps to ensure effective examination and treatment:

  • Step 1: Preparation The patient is positioned appropriately, and the area is prepared for the procedure. An obturator is inserted into the rigid proctosigmoidoscope, which is then introduced into the anus.
  • Step 2: Insertion The scope is advanced approximately 5 centimeters into the rectum. Once in position, the obturator is removed, and the eyepiece is attached to allow for visualization of the rectal and sigmoid mucosa.
  • Step 3: Insufflation Air is insufflated through the scope to separate the mucosal folds, enhancing visibility and access to the lesions.
  • Step 4: Advancement The scope is carefully advanced to the rectosigmoid junction and, if possible, into the sigmoid colon for a thorough examination.
  • Step 5: Inspection The mucosa is meticulously inspected for the presence of tumors, polyps, or other lesions that require removal.
  • Step 6: Lesion Removal Depending on the findings, one or more techniques are employed to remove the identified lesions. Hot biopsy forceps or bipolar cautery may be used for smaller lesions, while the snare technique is utilized for larger lesions, allowing for en bloc or piecemeal removal.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients may be monitored for any immediate complications. It is essential to provide post-procedure care instructions, which may include dietary modifications and signs of potential complications such as bleeding or infection. Patients are typically advised to follow up with their healthcare provider for further evaluation and management based on the findings from the procedure.

Short Descr PROCTOSIGMOIDOSCOPY REMOVAL
Medium Descr PROCTOSGMDSC RIGID RMVL MULT TUMOR CAUTERY/SNARE
Long Descr Proctosigmoidoscopy, rigid; with removal of multiple tumors, polyps, or other lesions 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 payment adjustment 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) 1 - Statutory 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 45300  Proctosigmoidoscopy, rigid; diagnostic, with or without collection of specimen(s) by brushing or washing (separate procedure)
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P8C - Endoscopy - sigmoidoscopy
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 77 - Proctoscopy and anorectal biopsy
PT Colorectal cancer screening test; converted to diagnostic test or other procedure
Date
Action
Notes
2017-01-01 Changed Moderate (Conscious) Sedation flag removed. See new Moderate Sedation category.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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