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CPT 43286: Esophagectomy with Laparoscopic Mobilization and Cervical Reconstruction
CPT code 43286 denotes a complex combined laparoscopic and open cervical esophagectomy with gastric resection and reconstruction, often used for extensive esophageal disease or malignancy requiring removal of most or all of the esophagus and restoration of alimentary continuity. Nationally, this code represents high-acuity surgical care that drives inpatient surgical service utilization, hospital resource needs, and bundled payment considerations for esophageal reconstruction. Key payers in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise explanation of the clinical intent of the procedure, typical sites of service, and the procedural components that distinguish CPT code 43286. The publication summarizes common modifiers and payer coverage context where available, highlights implications for inpatient surgical workflows and coding accuracy, and outlines clinical context important for documentation and claim adjudication. Data not available in the input for specific associated taxonomies, ICD-10 diagnoses, and related codes is noted. This national-level summary is intended to support coding teams, surgical leaders, and revenue cycle stakeholders seeking a clear, actionable description of the service represented by CPT code 43286.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 43286 describes a complex surgical procedure in which the provider performs a near-total or total esophagectomy with gastric resection and reconstruction. The operation uses a laparoscopic approach to mobilize the esophagus and upper stomach, combined with an open cervical approach to create either a pharyngogastrostomy or an esophagogastrostomy connecting the stomach to the pharynx or the remaining esophagus. A pyloric drainage procedure may or may not be performed during the laparoscopic portion of the case.
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Service type: Major thoracic and abdominal reconstructive surgery involving both laparoscopic and open cervical approaches
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Typical site of service: Hospital operating room; care spans intraoperative services and postoperative inpatient recovery