0 code page views remaining today. Guest accounts are limited to 2 daily page views. Register free account to get more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Colon motility (manometric) study, minimum 6 hours continuous recording (including provocation tests, eg, meal, intracolonic balloon distension, pharmacologic agents, if performed), with interpretation and report

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 91117 refers to a colon motility (manometric) study that involves a minimum of six hours of continuous recording, which may include various provocation tests such as a meal, intracolonic balloon distension, and pharmacologic agents if performed. This diagnostic procedure is primarily utilized to evaluate patients experiencing severe constipation, particularly to ascertain whether the underlying cause is due to colonic inertia. During the manometric study, a specialized thin probe equipped with multiple microsensors and a small balloon is inserted into the rectum and advanced into the colon. This probe is connected to a computerized device that meticulously records the muscle and nerve activity within the colon as it is maneuvered through the intestinal tract. The data collected during the procedure is graphically represented on a computer monitor, allowing for real-time observation of colonic contractions. To further assess colonic function, a series of provocation tests are conducted. For instance, the patient may be administered a 1000-calorie meal, after which muscle tone and sensory changes are monitored over a period of one hour or more. Additionally, the intracolonic balloon distension test is performed, which involves the inflation and deflation of the balloon with small amounts of air multiple times to evaluate the muscle responses of the colon. In some cases, a pharmacologic agent may be introduced to stimulate colon contractions, with the corresponding muscle and nerve activity being recorded. Upon completion of the study, the manometry probe, along with its sensors and balloon, is carefully removed. The physician then analyzes the recorded data and provides a comprehensive written interpretation of the findings, which is essential for determining the appropriate clinical management of the patient’s condition.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The colon motility (manometric) study, as described by CPT® Code 91117, is indicated for patients presenting with severe constipation. This procedure is particularly relevant for evaluating whether the constipation is due to colonic inertia, a condition where the colon does not function properly to move stool through the digestive tract. The study helps in diagnosing underlying motility disorders that may contribute to the patient's symptoms.

  • Severe Constipation This procedure is performed to assess the underlying causes of severe constipation, particularly when standard treatments have failed.
  • Colonic Inertia The study is specifically indicated to determine if colonic inertia is the cause of the patient's constipation.

2. Procedure

The colon motility study involves several detailed procedural steps to ensure accurate measurement and recording of colonic activity. Initially, a thin manometry probe, which is equipped with multiple microsensors and a small balloon, is inserted into the rectum. The probe is then carefully advanced into the colon, allowing for the assessment of muscle and nerve activity throughout the intestinal tract. This probe is connected to a computerized device that continuously records the data as it is advanced.

  • Insertion of the Probe The procedure begins with the insertion of the manometry probe into the rectum, which is then advanced into the colon to measure colonic motility.
  • Continuous Recording The computerized device records muscle and nerve activity continuously for a minimum of six hours, capturing the contractions of the colon during this period.
  • Provocation Tests Various provocation tests are performed, including the administration of a 1000-calorie meal, which allows for the monitoring of muscle tone and sensory changes over time.
  • Intracolonic Balloon Distension The procedure may include intracolonic balloon distension, where the balloon is inflated and deflated with small amounts of air multiple times to assess muscle responses.
  • Pharmacologic Agents If indicated, pharmacologic agents may be administered to stimulate colon contractions, with the corresponding muscle and nerve activity being recorded.
  • Completion of the Study At the end of the study, the manometry probe, along with the attached sensors and balloon, is removed, and the physician reviews the collected data.

3. Post-Procedure

After the completion of the colon motility study, patients may experience some temporary discomfort due to the insertion of the probe. However, there are typically no significant post-procedure care requirements. The physician will analyze the recorded data and provide a written interpretation of the findings, which will be essential for determining the next steps in the patient's management plan. Patients may be advised to resume their normal activities unless otherwise instructed by their healthcare provider.

Short Descr COLON MOTILITY 6 HR STUDY
Medium Descr COLON MOTILITY STDY MIN 6 HR CONT RECORD W/I&R
Long Descr Colon motility (manometric) study, minimum 6 hours continuous recording (including provocation tests, eg, meal, intracolonic balloon distension, pharmacologic agents, if performed), with interpretation and report
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
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, Multiple Reduction Applies
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule)
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 97 - Other gastrointestinal diagnostic procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2013-01-01 Changed Guideline information changed.
2011-01-01 Added Added
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description