CPT® Code 47371

Laparoscopy, surgical ablation of one or more liver tumors using cryosurgical techniques involves a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at treating liver tumors. The procedure begins with the creation of a small incision near the umbilicus, through which a trocar is inserted to establish pneumoperitoneum, allowing for the inflation of the abdominal cavity. This inflation is crucial as it provides the surgeon with a better view and access to the internal organs. Additional incisions are made in the upper and lower quadrants of the abdomen to insert more trocars, facilitating the use of various surgical instruments. During the procedure, the abdominal cavity is thoroughly inspected for any extrahepatic tumors or abnormalities, and any adhesions present are carefully lysed using both blunt and sharp dissection techniques. The liver is then mobilized, and all eight hepatic segments are inspected to locate the tumors. In the context of cryosurgical ablation, ultrasound guidance is employed to accurately position one or more cryoprobes into the tumor. The procedure involves initiating a freeze cycle, which creates an ice ball around the tumor, effectively destroying the tumor cells. Following the freeze cycle, the tissue is thawed, and the site is monitored to ensure complete destruction of the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue. Multiple freeze-thaw cycles may be necessary to achieve complete tumor necrosis. This meticulous approach is repeated for each tumor present until all tumors have been successfully ablated. Upon completion of the procedure, the gas is released from the abdomen, and the laparoscope along with the surgical instruments is removed, followed by the closure of the portal incisions.