CPT® Code 44100

The procedure described by CPT® Code 44100 involves a biopsy of the intestine using a specialized capsule and tube, which is performed perorally, meaning it is conducted through the mouth. This technique allows the physician to obtain one or more tissue specimens from the intestine, specifically targeting areas such as the jejunum and duodenum. The process begins with the insertion of a capsule attached to a flexible tube into the patient's mouth, which the patient is then instructed to swallow. Once the capsule and tube reach the stomach, the patient is guided to drink water and change positions as necessary to facilitate the passage of the capsule and tube into the jejunum, the middle section of the small intestine. Alternatively, the procedure may involve the direct passage of a flexible tube through the mouth into the stomach, which is then advanced through the pylorus (the opening from the stomach into the small intestine) and into the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). The physician manipulates the tube to reach the duodenojejunal junction, where biopsies are typically taken from the jejunum. If required, the tube can be advanced further to obtain additional specimens. The biopsy capsule is then activated to collect tissue samples from the jejunum, followed by the withdrawal of the tube into the duodenum to obtain further biopsies. After the procedure, the tube is completely withdrawn, and the collected specimens are prepared and sent to a laboratory for evaluation, which is reported separately. This method is essential for diagnosing various gastrointestinal conditions and allows for targeted sampling of intestinal tissue for further analysis.