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Official Description

Esophagus, acid perfusion (Bernstein) test for esophagitis

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 91030 refers to the esophagus acid perfusion test, commonly known as the Bernstein test, which is specifically utilized for diagnosing esophagitis. This diagnostic procedure is essential in distinguishing between chest pain that arises from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and pain that may be attributed to cardiac conditions. The test involves a series of steps that include the administration of a mild hydrochloric acid solution into the esophagus, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the patient's response to the acid. The procedure begins with the numbing of one nostril using lidocaine, which facilitates the passage of a catheter through the nasal passage and into the esophagus. As the catheter is advanced, the patient is instructed to swallow, aiding in the catheter's progression. The introduction of hydrochloric acid followed by saline solution allows for the evaluation of any discomfort or pain experienced by the patient, providing critical information for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This test is particularly valuable in clinical settings where differentiating the source of chest pain is crucial for appropriate management and intervention.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The esophagus acid perfusion (Bernstein) test is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Chest Pain This test is performed to differentiate between chest pain caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and pain resulting from cardiac conditions.
  • Suspected Esophagitis The procedure is indicated when there is a suspicion of esophagitis, which may be due to acid reflux or other gastrointestinal issues.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the esophagus acid perfusion test involves several key steps that are crucial for its execution:

  • Step 1: Numbing the Nostrils The first step involves the application of lidocaine to numb one of the patient's nostrils. This is essential to minimize discomfort during the insertion of the catheter.
  • Step 2: Catheter Insertion Following the numbing, a catheter is carefully passed through the nostril and advanced through the pharynx into the esophagus. This step requires precision to ensure that the catheter is correctly positioned for the test.
  • Step 3: Patient Swallowing The patient is then asked to swallow, which aids in the advancement of the catheter into the esophagus. This action helps facilitate the proper placement of the catheter for the subsequent steps.
  • Step 4: Instillation of Hydrochloric Acid Once the catheter is in place, a mild hydrochloric acid solution is instilled through the esophageal catheter into the esophagus. This step is critical as it simulates the conditions that may cause discomfort in patients with esophagitis.
  • Step 5: Instillation of Saline Solution After the hydrochloric acid, a saline solution is instilled. This serves as a control to compare the patient's response to the acid.
  • Step 6: Patient Feedback Throughout the procedure, the patient is asked to describe any discomfort or pain associated with the instillation of the hydrochloric acid. This feedback is vital for interpreting the results of the test.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the esophagus acid perfusion test, patients may be monitored for any immediate reactions to the procedure. It is important to assess the patient's comfort level and any symptoms that may arise following the instillation of the hydrochloric acid and saline solutions. Patients may experience transient discomfort, but this typically resolves shortly after the procedure. Further evaluation and follow-up may be necessary based on the results of the test and the patient's reported symptoms. Healthcare providers should ensure that patients understand any post-procedure care instructions and when to seek further medical attention if needed.

Short Descr ACID PERFUSION OF ESOPHAGUS
Medium Descr ESOPHAGUS ACID PERFUSION TEST ESOPHAGITIS
Long Descr Esophagus, acid perfusion (Bernstein) test for esophagitis
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 1 - Diagnostic Tests for Radiology Services
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No 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) 0 - 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, Not Discounted when Multiple
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) T2D - Other tests - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 97 - Other gastrointestinal diagnostic procedures
26 Professional component: certain procedures are a combination of a physician or other qualified health care professional component and a technical component. when the physician or other qualified health care professional component is reported separately, the service may be identified by adding modifier 26 to the usual procedure number.
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
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Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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