CPT® Code 49220

Deleted

Staging laparotomy for Hodgkins disease or lymphoma (includes splenectomy, needle or open biopsies of both liver lobes, possibly also removal of abdominal nodes, abdominal node and/or bone marrow biopsies, ovarian repositioning)

The CPT® Code 49220 refers to a surgical procedure known as staging laparotomy, specifically performed for patients diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease or lymphoma. This procedure is integral in the staging process, which helps determine the extent of the disease within the body. The staging laparotomy includes several critical components: a splenectomy, which is the surgical removal of the spleen; needle or open biopsies of both liver lobes; and potentially the removal of abdominal lymph nodes. Additionally, the procedure may involve obtaining biopsies from the bone marrow and repositioning the ovaries in women of child-bearing age to protect them from radiation exposure during subsequent treatments. The primary goal of this procedure is to accurately assess the spread of Hodgkin's disease, allowing for appropriate treatment planning. Although the use of staging laparotomy has decreased with advancements in imaging techniques, it remains a vital option in certain clinical scenarios. The procedure is performed through a midline abdominal incision, providing access to the spleen, liver, and lymphatic structures, which are essential for comprehensive evaluation and staging of the disease. This thorough approach ensures that all necessary tissue samples are collected for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.