In February 2010, the CPT Editorial Panel accepted the ASCRS proposal for a new technology Category III code to report ligation of hemorrhoidal vascular bundle(s) utilizing ultrasound guidance. The new tracking code will be published on July 1, 2010 on the AMA website. However, it can take the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) up to six months to recognize the tracking code.
The Committee is currently drafting a proposal for a new technology tracking CPT code for anoscopy with delivery of thermal energy to the muscle of the anal canal for fecal incontinence. More information will be provided at a later date, if accepted by the CPT Editorial Panel.
Regarding the TEMS Category III tracking code 0184T Excision of rectal tumor, transanal endoscopic microsurgical approach (i.e., TEMS), the Committee continues to advocate using the tracking code for TEMS transanal excision of lesion. Additionally, the Committee determined that 0184T cannot be converted to a Category I code until U.S. peer-reviewed studies are published. The committee urges members to publish their studies.
Regarding continued membership requests for a code for high-resolution anoscopy, the Committee determined that published U.S. peer-reviewed literature on efficacy is necessary before pursuing a CPT code. The committee urges members to publish their studies.
Medicare 5-Year-Review of Physician Work
As required by statute, the CMS has initiated the fourth five-year review of physician work relative value units (work RVUs) in the Medicare physician fee schedule. Unlike the previous three reviews, which included many colon and rectal procedures, this round does not have any codes requiring ASCRS participation. |
