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CPT®
46762

CPT® Code 46762
Deleted

Official Description

implantation artificial sphincter

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 46762 refers to the procedure of implantation of an artificial sphincter, which is a surgical intervention aimed at treating adult incontinence. This procedure is particularly relevant for individuals who experience involuntary loss of bowel control due to dysfunction of the anal sphincter. The artificial sphincter acts as a mechanical substitute for the natural sphincter, providing a means to control the passage of stool. The procedure involves several critical steps, including the incision of the skin and mucosa surrounding the anal canal, the placement of a cuff around the canal, and the installation of a reservoir and pump system, typically located in the scrotum or labium. This system is designed to manage the inflation and deflation of the cuff, thereby allowing the patient to control bowel movements. The implantation of an artificial sphincter is a complex procedure that requires careful surgical technique and post-operative management to ensure proper function and healing.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The implantation of an artificial sphincter (CPT® Code 46762) is indicated for patients suffering from adult incontinence, particularly when other surgical options have been considered or are not suitable. This procedure is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced significant impairment in their ability to control bowel movements due to anal sphincter dysfunction. The conditions that may lead to the need for this procedure include:

  • Severe anal sphincter injury: Damage to the anal sphincter muscles, often resulting from childbirth or trauma, which compromises the ability to maintain continence.
  • Neuromuscular disorders: Conditions that affect the nerves and muscles controlling the anal sphincter, leading to incontinence.
  • Previous unsuccessful surgical interventions: Patients who have undergone other surgical procedures for incontinence that did not yield satisfactory results may be candidates for this procedure.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the implantation of an artificial sphincter involves several detailed steps to ensure proper placement and function of the device. Each step is critical to the overall success of the surgery.

  • Step 1: Incision and Exposure The surgical process begins with the incision of the skin and mucosa surrounding the anal canal. This incision allows the surgeon to access the area where the artificial sphincter will be placed. Care is taken to minimize damage to surrounding tissues during this step.
  • Step 2: Cuff Placement A cuff is then placed around the anal canal. This cuff is designed to mimic the function of the natural anal sphincter, providing the necessary pressure to maintain continence when inflated.
  • Step 3: Reservoir and Pump Installation Following the cuff placement, a reservoir and pump are inserted into the scrotum or labium, depending on the patient's anatomy. The reservoir holds fluid that will be used to inflate the cuff, while the pump allows the patient to control the inflation and deflation of the cuff.
  • Step 4: Tubing Connection A thin tube is then tunneled subcutaneously to connect the cuff, reservoir, and pump. This connection is essential for the transfer of fluid between the components, enabling the cuff to inflate and deflate as needed.
  • Step 5: Closure of Incisions Once all components are in place, the skin incisions are carefully closed over the reservoir, pump, and cuff. This step is crucial for protecting the surgical site and promoting healing.
  • Step 6: Post-Operative Care After the procedure, the patient will undergo a period of healing. Once the tissue has healed adequately, fluid is transferred from the reservoir to the cuff, inflating it to close the anal canal. The patient is then instructed on how to use the pump to deflate the cuff, allowing for the passage of stool.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care is essential for the successful recovery and function of the implanted artificial sphincter. Patients can expect a period of healing during which they may experience some discomfort or swelling around the surgical site. It is important for patients to follow their surgeon's instructions regarding activity restrictions and care of the incision sites. Once healing is complete, the patient will learn how to operate the pump to control the cuff's inflation and deflation. Regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor the function of the artificial sphincter and address any complications that may arise. Patients should be aware that fluid will automatically return to the cuff after several minutes, ensuring that the anal canal remains closed until the patient chooses to deflate it.
Short Descr IMPLANT ARTIFICIAL SPHINCTER
Medium Descr SPHNCTROP ANAL IMPLTJ ARTIF SPHNCTR
Long Descr implantation artificial sphincter
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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 96 - Other OR lower GI therapeutic procedures
Date
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Notes
2019-01-01 Deleted Code deleted
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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