What is Medical claim code 81599?

Medical claim code 81599 is used for reporting percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage. This procedure is used to drain bile from the liver into the digestive tract. It is typically performed in patients with obstructed bile ducts, such as those with gallstones or tumors.

The code 81599 is specific to the percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage procedure, which involves the placement of a catheter (small tube) through the skin and into the bile duct. The catheter allows the bile to drain from the liver into the digestive tract, relieving the obstruction and preventing further complications.

This procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting by a gastroenterologist or interventional radiologist. It is considered to be a minimally invasive procedure, as it does not involve open surgery. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia and can take about 30-60 minutes.

The code 81599 is used for reporting the professional component of the procedure. This includes the physician's fees for the initial evaluation of the patient, the performance of the procedure, and the follow-up care. The technical component of the procedure, which includes the cost of the catheter and any other equipment used, is typically reported separately using a different code.

The use of medical claim codes, such as 81599, is important for the proper documentation and reimbursement of medical procedures. These codes are used by healthcare providers, insurance companies, and government agencies to ensure accurate and efficient billing and payment for medical services.