Find policies, billing codes, payers, states, and providers
CPT 42972: Surgical Control of Postoperative Nasopharyngeal Bleeding
CPT code 42972 denotes surgical control of nasopharyngeal bleeding that occurs within 24 hours (primary) or up to two weeks (secondary) after procedures such as adenoidectomy. This code captures an urgent, procedure-based intervention to manage postoperative hemorrhage in the nasopharynx, a complication with potential for airway compromise and significant morbidity if not addressed promptly. Nationally, accurate coding for postoperative hemostasis affects quality measurement, clinical communication, and hospital resource planning.
Payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The coverage considerations and payment practices across these major payers influence site-of-service decisions and billing workflows for acute surgical interventions.
Readers will find a concise explanation of what CPT code 42972 represents, the clinical context in which it is used, and the typical settings for the service. The publication provides benchmarks and policy-relevant information where available, outlines payer coverage patterns, and summarizes clinical context to support correct code application. Data not available in the input is noted where relevant.
Customize your policy alerts
Sign up for cpt 42972 policy alerts
Get alerted when payer policies referencing 42972 are released or updated.
Monitor payer policy activity
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 42972 describes a surgical procedure to control nasopharyngeal bleeding occurring within 24 hours (primary) or up to two weeks (secondary) after surgery such as an adenoidectomy. This service represents the use of surgical means to arrest postoperative nasopharyngeal hemorrhage.
-
Service type: Surgical hemostasis of the nasopharynx following recent surgery
-
Typical site of service: Hospital operating room, ambulatory surgical center, or other procedural setting where surgical intervention for postoperative hemorrhage is performed
Data not available in the input for associated taxonomies, ICD-10 diagnoses, and related codes.