Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account

Need help choosing the right code?

Ask CasePilot about procedures, modifiers, bundling, and coding guidance.

Try CasePilot

Official Description

Laparoscopy, surgical, gastric restrictive procedure; revision of adjustable gastric restrictive device component only

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A laparoscopic revision of an adjustable gastric restrictive device, specifically focusing on the gastric band component, is described by CPT® Code 43771. This procedure is typically indicated when complications arise, such as slippage of the gastric band, which can affect its functionality and the patient's weight loss journey. The gastric band is designed with a locking mechanism that allows for adjustments; when slippage occurs, the band can be unlocked and repositioned to restore its intended function. The procedure begins with the insertion of a Veress needle to insufflate the abdomen, creating a working space for the laparoscopic instruments. Following this, trocars are introduced to facilitate the placement of laparoscopic tools necessary for the procedure. A nasogastric tube is also placed to decompress the stomach, ensuring that the surgical field is clear and manageable. The surgical team then dissects the gastric band free from surrounding tissues, unlocks it, and repositions it as needed. This procedure is distinct from other related codes, such as CPT® 43772, which involves the removal of the gastric band without replacing it, and CPT® 43773, which includes the removal and replacement of a defective gastric band. The careful execution of this laparoscopic revision is crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of the adjustable gastric restrictive device and supporting the patient's weight management goals.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The laparoscopic revision of an adjustable gastric restrictive device, as indicated by CPT® Code 43771, is performed under specific circumstances related to the functionality of the gastric band. The primary indications for this procedure include:

  • Slippage of the Gastric Band - This occurs when the band has moved from its intended position, which can lead to complications in weight management and necessitates repositioning.

2. Procedure

The procedure for the laparoscopic revision of the gastric band component involves several critical steps, each designed to ensure the effective repositioning of the device:

  • Step 1: Insufflation of the Abdomen - The procedure begins with the insertion of a Veress needle into the abdominal cavity. This needle is used to insufflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide gas, creating a pneumoperitoneum that allows for better visualization and access to the surgical area.
  • Step 2: Introduction of Trocars - Following insufflation, trocars are introduced into the abdominal cavity. These trocars serve as access points for the laparoscopic instruments that will be used throughout the procedure.
  • Step 3: Placement of Nasogastric Tube - A nasogastric tube is placed to decompress the stomach. This step is essential to ensure that the surgical field is clear and that the stomach is not distended, which could complicate the procedure.
  • Step 4: Dissection of the Gastric Band - The surgical team carefully dissects the gastric band free from surrounding tissues. This involves identifying and separating any adhesions or connections that may have formed around the band.
  • Step 5: Unlocking and Repositioning the Band - Once the band is free, it is unlocked to allow for repositioning. The surgeon will adjust the band to its proper location to ensure optimal function.
  • Step 6: Verification and Calibration - After repositioning, the position of the band is checked and adjusted as necessary. Saline solution is then injected into the inflatable balloon of the band to calibrate the tension, ensuring that it is set correctly for the patient’s needs.
  • Step 7: Securing the Band - The band is secured in place with sutures, and the tubing is clamped. Any redundant portions of the tubing are cut and removed to prevent complications.
  • Step 8: Connection to Existing Reservoir - Finally, the band is connected to the existing reservoir, completing the revision process. Postoperative adjustments to the gastric band may be performed in the radiology department to ensure proper function.

3. Post-Procedure

After the laparoscopic revision of the gastric band component, patients can expect specific post-procedure care and considerations. Monitoring for any signs of complications, such as infection or improper band placement, is essential. Patients may experience some discomfort and will be advised on dietary modifications as they recover. Follow-up appointments are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the band adjustment and for any necessary postoperative adjustments, which are typically performed in the radiology department. The overall recovery time may vary based on individual patient factors and the complexity of the procedure.

Short Descr LAP REVISE GASTR ADJ DEVICE
Medium Descr LAPS GASTRIC RESTRICTIVE PX REVISION DEVICE
Long Descr Laparoscopy, surgical, gastric restrictive procedure; revision of adjustable gastric restrictive device component only
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
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) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 244 - Gastric bypass and volume reduction

This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.

49327 Addon Code MPFS Status: Active Code APC N ASC N1 Laparoscopy, surgical; with placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance (eg, fiducial markers, dosimeter), intra-abdominal, intrapelvic, and/or retroperitoneum, including imaging guidance, if performed, single or multiple (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
78 Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.)
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
82 Assistant surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): the unavailability of a qualified resident surgeon is a prerequisite for use of modifier 82 appended to the usual procedure code number(s).
AQ Physician providing a service in an unlisted health professional shortage area (hpsa)
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
Date
Action
Notes
2008-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
2006-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2006.
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
Code
Description
CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"