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CPT 44212: Laparoscopic Total Colectomy with Proctectomy and Ileostomy
CPT code 44212 represents a major laparoscopic colorectal surgery—total colectomy with proctectomy and ileostomy—performed through an abdominal approach. This code captures a complex operative procedure that typically requires general anesthesia, inpatient hospital resources, and an extended postoperative recovery. Nationally, accurate coding of 44212 affects surgical quality reporting, facility and professional reimbursement, and resource planning for high-acuity colorectal services.
Key payers included in this analysis are Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the clinical context for the procedure, expected site-of-service and service line implications, and the typical administrative considerations tied to high-complexity colorectal operations. The publication also summarizes benchmarking considerations and policy-relevant points that influence coding consistency and claims processing across major national payers.
This report is intended to inform clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts about the clinical definition and administrative implications of CPT code 44212, and to outline the topics covered including coding description, payer coverage landscape, common modifiers and billing considerations, and where to look for related clinical and billing guidance. Data not available in the input is identified where applicable.
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Billing Code Overview
CPT code 44212 describes a laparoscopic total colectomy with proctectomy and ileostomy. The procedure involves removal of the entire colon (total colectomy) and removal of the rectum (proctectomy) performed through a laparoscopic abdominal approach, with creation of an ileostomy by bringing the ileum to an external abdominal opening.
Service type: Surgical — Laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Typical site of service: Inpatient hospital operating room or inpatient surgical setting, reflecting major abdominal surgery requiring anesthesia and postoperative inpatient care.