September 6, 2018
Question:
How is this scenario coded? A segment of the colon is opened to remove a foreign body and then closed. No resection and no perforation.
Answer:
The scenario you describe is a colotomy; making an incision in the colon through which the colon is explored for biopsy or foreign body removal This is coded as 44025, Colotomy, for exploration, biopsy(s), or foreign body removal.
*This response is based on the best information available as of 09/06/18, 3:00 PM Central Time (CT).
