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Code deleted, see 43762, 43763

Official Description

Change of gastrostomy tube, percutaneous, without imaging or endoscopic guidance

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A percutaneous change of a gastrostomy tube is a medical procedure that involves the replacement of an existing gastrostomy tube without the use of imaging or endoscopic guidance. This procedure is typically indicated for patients who require long-term nutritional support through a gastrostomy tube, which is inserted directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. The existing gastrostomy tube site is carefully examined to ensure that it is suitable for the procedure. Depending on the type of gastrostomy tube in place, the method of removal may vary. For balloon catheter types, the balloon is deflated prior to removal, while for retention dome types, the tube may be cut to facilitate its passage through the digestive tract or removed using external traction. Once the old tube is removed, a new gastrostomy tube is inserted into the same site. If the new tube is also a balloon catheter type, the balloon is inflated to secure the tube in place. The final steps of the procedure include pulling the tube back to ensure proper positioning and securing it, followed by verification of patency to confirm that the tube is functioning correctly.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure for changing a gastrostomy tube is indicated for patients who require ongoing nutritional support through a gastrostomy tube. Specific indications for this procedure may include:

  • Replacement of a malfunctioning tube due to blockage, leakage, or other issues that compromise its function.
  • Routine replacement of the gastrostomy tube as part of standard care to prevent complications associated with prolonged use of the same tube.
  • Infection or irritation at the gastrostomy site that necessitates the removal and replacement of the tube.

2. Procedure

The procedure for changing a gastrostomy tube involves several key steps, which are outlined as follows:

  • Step 1: Examination of the existing gastrostomy tube site - The healthcare provider begins by examining the site where the gastrostomy tube is inserted to assess for any signs of infection, irritation, or other complications that may affect the procedure.
  • Step 2: Removal of the existing gastrostomy tube - If the existing tube is a balloon catheter type, the provider will first deflate the balloon to facilitate removal. For retention dome types, the tube may be cut to allow the dome to pass through the digestive tract, or the dome may be removed using external traction.
  • Step 3: Insertion of the new gastrostomy tube - After the old tube is removed, a new gastrostomy tube is inserted into the same site. If the new tube is a balloon catheter type, the balloon is inflated to secure the tube in place.
  • Step 4: Securing the new tube - The healthcare provider will pull the tube back to ensure it is properly positioned and then secure it to prevent dislodgment.
  • Step 5: Verification of patency - Finally, the provider will verify that the new gastrostomy tube is patent, ensuring that it is functioning correctly and that there are no obstructions.

3. Post-Procedure

After the procedure, patients may require monitoring for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection at the gastrostomy site. It is important to provide care instructions regarding the maintenance of the new gastrostomy tube, including how to clean the site and recognize signs of potential complications. Patients should also be advised on dietary modifications and any follow-up appointments necessary to ensure the ongoing functionality of the gastrostomy tube.

Short Descr CHANGE GASTROSTOMY TUBE
Medium Descr CHANGE GASTROSTOMY TUBE PERCUTANEOUS W/O GDNCE
Long Descr Change of gastrostomy tube, percutaneous, without imaging or endoscopic guidance
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P6C - Minor procedures - other (Medicare fee schedule)
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 71 - Gastrostomy, temporary and permanent
Date
Action
Notes
2019-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 43762, 43763
2008-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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