Find policies, billing codes, payers, states, and providers
CPT 44388: Colonoscopy via Colostomy Stoma for Surveillance
CPT code 44388 denotes colonoscopic examination of the residual colon through an existing colostomy stoma, typically performed to evaluate for recurrent disease and to obtain cytologic samples via brushing or washing. Nationally, this code matters because it captures a distinct endoscopic service performed through a surgically created stoma, with implications for coding specificity, clinical surveillance protocols, and outpatient endoscopy resource planning. Key payers covered in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will learn what CPT code 44388 represents clinically and operationally, how it is used in outpatient endoscopy settings, and which payer policies and coverage considerations commonly apply. The report summarizes typical sites of service, common clinical indications, and expected documentation elements needed to support the procedure. Where available, benchmarking and utilization context are presented to help stakeholders understand frequency and coding accuracy nationally. Data not available in the input is noted explicitly in relevant sections.
Customize your policy alerts
Sign up for cpt 44388 policy alerts
Get alerted when payer policies referencing 44388 are released or updated.
Monitor payer policy activity
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 44388 describes an endoscopic evaluation of the remaining colon through an existing colostomy stoma using a colonoscope. The procedure involves inserting a tubular instrument with a light source and camera through the surgically created stoma to visualize the mucosa of the diverted colon and to inspect for recurrent disease, such as malignancy. Samples of suspicious tissue may be collected by brushing or washing for cytologic laboratory analysis.
-
Service type: Endoscopic surveillance/diagnostic procedure of the diverted colon via colostomy
-
Typical site of service: Outpatient endoscopy suite or hospital outpatient department (performed through a previously created colostomy stoma)