CPT® Code 46942

Curettage or cautery of an anal fissure, including dilation of the anal sphincter, is a surgical procedure performed as a separate intervention. An anal fissure is defined as a painful tear or crack in the mucous membrane lining the anus, which can lead to significant discomfort and complications if not treated appropriately. In cases where the fissures become chronic, they may result in a narrowing or stricture of the anal sphincter, necessitating dilation to alleviate symptoms and restore normal function. The treatment of the fissure involves curettage, a technique that entails scraping the affected area to remove the damaged tissue and expose the healthy underlying mucosa. This process may be followed by cautery methods, which can include chemical cautery using agents such as silver nitrate or phenol in glycerine, or electrocautery, which applies heat through a high-frequency current delivered via a metal probe or needle. If a stricture is identified during the procedure, dilation is performed using a bougie, a flexible cylindrical instrument designed to stretch the narrowed area. It is important to note that CPT® Code 46940 is used for the initial procedure, while CPT® Code 46942 is designated for subsequent procedures related to this treatment.