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

Excision of rectal tumor, transanal approach

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 45170 involves the excision of a tumor located on the rectum using a transanal approach. This means that the surgical removal of the tumor is performed through the anal cavity, allowing for direct access to the rectal area without the need for an external incision on the abdomen. The transanal approach is often preferred for rectal tumors as it can minimize recovery time and reduce the risk of complications associated with more invasive surgical techniques. The excision aims to completely remove the tumor while preserving as much surrounding healthy tissue as possible, which is crucial for maintaining rectal function and integrity. This procedure is typically indicated for patients diagnosed with rectal tumors that are accessible via the anal canal, and it requires careful planning and execution by a qualified surgical team to ensure optimal outcomes.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The excision of a rectal tumor via a transanal approach is indicated for specific conditions related to the presence of tumors in the rectal area. The following are the explicitly provided indications for this procedure:

  • Rectal Tumors The primary indication for this procedure is the presence of a tumor on the rectum that requires surgical removal. This may include benign tumors, malignant tumors, or other growths that could potentially obstruct the rectal passage or cause other complications.

2. Procedure

The procedure for excising a rectal tumor through a transanal approach involves several critical steps to ensure the safe and effective removal of the tumor. Each step is designed to facilitate access to the tumor while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.

  • Step 1: Patient Preparation Prior to the procedure, the patient is prepared through a series of preoperative assessments, which may include imaging studies to determine the size and location of the tumor. The patient is positioned appropriately to allow optimal access to the anal cavity, and anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure.
  • Step 2: Accessing the Tumor The surgeon uses specialized instruments to gently access the rectal area through the anal canal. This may involve the use of retractors to hold the anal opening open, providing a clear view of the rectal lumen and the tumor.
  • Step 3: Tumor Excision Once the tumor is clearly visualized, the surgeon carefully excises the tumor from the rectal wall. This step requires precision to ensure complete removal of the tumor while preserving surrounding healthy tissue. The excised tumor is typically sent for pathological examination to determine its nature.
  • Step 4: Closure After the tumor has been removed, the surgical site is inspected for any bleeding or complications. If necessary, the surgeon may place sutures to close the incision in the rectal wall. The area is then cleaned, and any instruments are removed.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the excision of the rectal tumor, patients are monitored for any immediate complications, such as bleeding or infection. Post-procedure care typically includes pain management and instructions for wound care. Patients may be advised to follow a specific diet and to gradually resume normal activities. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor recovery and to discuss the results of the pathological examination of the excised tumor. Any additional treatments or interventions may be determined based on the findings from the pathology report.

Short Descr EXCISION OF RECTAL LESION
Medium Descr EXCISION OF RECTAL LESION
Long Descr EXC RCT TUM TRANSANAL APPR
APC Status Indicator Significant Procedure, Multiple Reduction Applies
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 96 - Other OR lower GI therapeutic procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2010-01-01 Deleted -
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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"