CPT® Code 44130

The procedure described by CPT® Code 44130 refers to an enteroenterostomy, which is a surgical technique used to create an anastomosis, or connection, between two segments of the intestine. This procedure may be performed with or without the creation of a cutaneous enterostomy, which is an opening made in the abdominal wall to allow for the passage of intestinal contents. The primary purpose of an enteroenterostomy is to restore continuity of the intestinal tract after a segment has been resected or bypassed due to various medical conditions. The surgery typically involves a midline incision in the abdomen to access the intestines, followed by careful dissection to free the affected segments from surrounding tissues. The surgeon identifies the previously divided segments of the small intestine, prepares them for anastomosis by incising at designated sites, and then sutures the segments together using various configurations such as end-to-end, end-to-side, or side-to-side. If a cutaneous enterostomy is indicated, a separate incision is made to create an opening in the abdominal wall, allowing a segment of the small bowel to be exteriorized and secured to the skin. This procedure is critical in managing intestinal continuity and function, particularly in patients who have undergone resections due to disease or injury.