© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.
A colonoscopy, as described by CPT® Code 45355, involves the examination of the colon using a rigid or flexible endoscope. This procedure is performed transabdominally, meaning that it is conducted through the abdominal wall via colotomy, which is an incision made in the colon. The process begins with the creation of a small incision in the abdomen, allowing access to the colon. Once the incision is made, a segment of the colon is incised to facilitate the introduction of the colonoscope. The colonoscope is then carefully advanced through the colon, enabling the physician to inspect the mucosal surfaces for any abnormalities. During this inspection, the physician looks for various issues such as ulcerations, varices, bleeding sites, lesions, strictures, or other abnormalities that may require further attention. After the initial inspection, the endoscope is withdrawn, and the mucosal surfaces are re-examined to ensure that no abnormalities have been overlooked. If necessary, additional incisions may be made through the skin and into the colon, allowing for further colonoscopy through these separate access points. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough evaluation of the colon, which is critical for diagnosing and managing various gastrointestinal conditions.
© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.
The procedure described by CPT® Code 45355 is indicated for various conditions that necessitate a detailed examination of the colon. The following are explicitly provided indications for performing this procedure:
The procedure for CPT® Code 45355 involves several critical steps to ensure a thorough examination of the colon. The following procedural steps are outlined:
After the completion of the colonoscopy procedure, patients are typically monitored in a recovery area until the effects of sedation wear off. It is common for patients to experience some discomfort or cramping, which usually resolves quickly. Instructions for post-procedure care may include dietary recommendations, activity restrictions, and signs to watch for that may indicate complications, such as excessive bleeding or severe abdominal pain. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss findings and any necessary further interventions based on the results of the colonoscopy.
| Short Descr | SURGICAL COLONOSCOPY | Medium Descr | COLSC RGD/FLX TABDL VIA COLOTOMY 1/MLT | Long Descr | Colonoscopy, rigid or flexible, transabdominal via colotomy, single or multiple | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure | 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 | 9 - 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. | 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) | P8D - Endoscopy - colonoscopy | MUE | Not applicable/unspecified. | CCS Clinical Classification | 76 - Colonoscopy and biopsy |
|
Date
|
Action
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|
| 2015-01-01 | Deleted | Code deleted, see 45399 |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.