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The procedure described by CPT® Code 47552 involves a biliary endoscopy performed percutaneously through a T-tube or another external biliary drainage tract. This diagnostic procedure utilizes a flexible fiberoptic endoscope, which is a thin, tube-like instrument equipped with a light and camera, allowing for visualization of the bile ducts. During the procedure, the endoscope is carefully inserted through the T-tube or drainage tract and advanced into the bile ducts. The primary objective is to inspect the bile ducts for any signs of disease or abnormalities, such as blockages, inflammation, or tumors. In conjunction with the visual inspection, cell samples can be collected through a technique known as brushing or by washing saline fluid into the bile duct, which helps to gather cellular material. These samples are then sent to a laboratory for cytology evaluation, which is a separate reportable service. It is important to note that this procedure is classified as a separate procedure, indicating that it is distinct from other related interventions, such as biopsy procedures, which may involve different techniques and coding, such as those described in CPT® Code 47553.
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The biliary endoscopy procedure described by CPT® Code 47552 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where there is a need to evaluate the bile ducts for potential abnormalities. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:
The biliary endoscopy procedure involves several key steps to ensure effective diagnosis and specimen collection. The following procedural steps are performed:
After the biliary endoscopy procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection. They may be advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a short period. The results of the cytology evaluation will be communicated to the patient and referring physician, guiding further management based on the findings. Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results and any necessary subsequent interventions.
| Short Descr | BILIARY ENDO PERQ DX W/SPECI | Medium Descr | BILIARY ENDO PRQ T-TUBE DX W/COLLECT SPEC BRUSH | Long Descr | Biliary endoscopy, percutaneous via T-tube or other tract; diagnostic, with collection of specimen(s) by brushing and/or washing, when performed (separate procedure) | 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 | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies 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 | 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) | P8I - Endoscopy - other | MUE | 1 | CCS Clinical Classification | 97 - Other gastrointestinal diagnostic procedures |
| 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). | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | 82 | Assistant surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): the unavailability of a qualified resident surgeon is a prerequisite for use of modifier 82 appended to the usual procedure code number(s). | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician |
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| 2014-01-01 | Changed | Description Changed |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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