CPT® Code 43755

Gastric intubation and aspiration, diagnostic; collection of multiple fractional specimens with gastric stimulation, single or double lumen tube (gastric secretory study) (eg, histamine, insulin, pentagastrin, calcium, secretin), includes drug administration

The procedure described by CPT® Code 43755 involves gastric intubation and aspiration for diagnostic purposes. This procedure is performed to collect multiple fractional specimens of gastric secretions, which are essential for evaluating the stomach's secretory function. A gastric tube, which can be a single or double lumen tube, is inserted through the patient's nose or mouth. The choice of nostril is determined by examining both nostrils and selecting the one that is more open or patent for the tube insertion. To facilitate the procedure and minimize discomfort, local anesthesia is applied using viscous lidocaine in the selected nostril. The length of the tube required for proper placement in the stomach is estimated and marked accordingly. Once the tube is inserted into the nose, it is advanced through the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and esophagus until it reaches the stomach. The patient may be instructed to sip water to aid in the advancement of the tube. Proper placement of the tube is confirmed by either instilling air into the stomach and listening for a rush of air or by aspirating gastric contents. The physician then conducts a diagnostic aspiration procedure, which differs from CPT® Code 43754, where only a single specimen is collected. In contrast, CPT® Code 43755 allows for the collection of multiple fractional specimens, which are crucial for a comprehensive analysis of gastric secretions. This procedure also includes the administration of specific drugs, such as histamine, insulin, pentagastrin, calcium, and secretin, which are used to stimulate gastric secretion during the test.