CPT® Code 38102

Add-On Code

Splenectomy; total, en bloc for extensive disease, in conjunction with other procedure (List in addition to code for primary procedure)

A total splenectomy, specifically coded as CPT® 38102, involves the complete surgical removal of the spleen, performed in conjunction with another procedure for patients with extensive disease. This procedure is indicated when the spleen is significantly enlarged or has ruptured, necessitating its removal to prevent complications such as hemorrhage. The surgical approach begins with an abdominal incision to access the spleen, which is then mobilized and displaced medially to allow for the identification and ligation of the splenic artery and associated ligaments. The ligaments involved include the splenorenal, splenocolic, and gastrosplenic ligaments, which are carefully divided to facilitate the removal of the spleen. The procedure emphasizes meticulous control of any bleeding, particularly in the splenic pedicle and retroperitoneal space, ensuring that the surgical site is thoroughly inspected before closure. This en bloc technique is crucial for managing extensive disease, as it allows for the removal of the spleen along with any adjacent affected tissues, thereby addressing the underlying pathology effectively.