CPT code 45116 denotes a posterior approach rectal resection with colorectal anastomosis, commonly used in the surgical management of rectal cancer. The code captures a complex pelvic operation that includes removal of the coccyx and part of the left sacral wing to access and excise disease, followed by rejoining the remaining rectum to the colon. Nationally, this code matters because it represents a high-complexity inpatient surgical service with implications for hospital coding, surgical quality measurement, and oncology care pathways.

Key payers reviewed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will gain a concise clinical and coding orientation to the procedure, understand typical sites of service and service type, and see what elements are commonly relevant when this code is billed. The publication also outlines typical payer coverage context and operational considerations for hospitals and surgical teams.

The report provides benchmarks and policy context where available, highlights the clinical circumstances that drive use of this code, and notes when additional documentation is typically necessary to substantiate the complexity of the procedure. Data not available in the input will be identified explicitly in the detailed sections of the publication.