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CPT 43281: Laparoscopic Paraesophageal Hernia Repair, May Include Fundoplication
CPT code 43281 denotes a laparoscopic repair of a paraesophageal hernia, often performed with a concurrent fundoplication and explicitly without mesh implantation. This procedure is clinically significant for managing symptomatic paraesophageal hernias and preventing complications such as obstruction, strangulation, or progressive reflux-related injury. Nationally, the code is important for surgical billing, quality measurement, and resource planning across hospital and ambulatory surgery settings.
Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context, typical sites of service, and common billing considerations for CPT code 43281. The publication provides benchmark descriptions, payer coverage patterns, and relevant policy updates that affect preauthorization, site-of-service decisions, and claims adjudication. Clinical nuances such as inclusion of fundoplication and exclusion of mesh placement are highlighted to clarify coding specificity.
The report is aimed at hospital administrators, surgical coders, and policy analysts seeking clear guidance on code usage, reimbursement context, and national payer practices. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable, and the content focuses on factual description and payer coverage scope rather than clinical recommendations.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 43281 describes a laparoscopic repair of a paraesophageal hernia, where the stomach slides up next to the esophagus. The procedure may include a fundoplication, in which part of the stomach is wrapped around the esophagus, and does not involve implantation of mesh.
Service type: Surgical — Laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair (may include fundoplication)
Typical site of service: Inpatient or outpatient hospital operating room or ambulatory surgery center, as this is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed under anesthesia.