CPT® Code 38115

The procedure described by CPT® Code 38115 involves the surgical repair of a ruptured spleen, a condition known as splenorrhaphy. This procedure may be performed with or without a partial splenectomy, depending on the extent of the damage to the spleen. A ruptured spleen can occur due to trauma or injury, leading to internal bleeding and necessitating immediate surgical intervention. During the operation, a surgical incision is made in the abdomen to access the spleen. The spleen is then carefully exposed, mobilized, and displaced medially to allow for a clear view of the damaged area. Surgeons will ligate any actively bleeding vessels to control hemorrhage. If there is damaged or devitalized splenic tissue, it is debrided to remove non-viable tissue. The actual repair of the rupture is accomplished using sutures or staples to close the wound. In cases where the damage is extensive, a partial splenectomy may be performed, which involves excising a portion of the spleen. After the excision, the remaining segment of the spleen is repaired. If bleeding persists and cannot be controlled with sutures or staples, the splenic artery may be ligated. To further support the repair, the remaining spleen segment may be wrapped in omentum or synthetic mesh, and a drain may be inserted to prevent fluid accumulation. Finally, the abdominal incision is closed around the drain, completing the procedure.