CPT® Code 88029

A necropsy, commonly referred to as an autopsy, is a thorough examination performed on stillborn or newborn infants to determine the cause of death and to gather important medical information. This specific procedure, identified by CPT® Code 88029, involves both gross and microscopic examination of the infant's body, with a particular focus on the brain. The procedure is applicable to infants aged 1 to 12 months, newborns (from birth to 1 month), and stillborns (fetuses with a gestational age of 20 weeks or more). During the necropsy, a comprehensive external examination is conducted, which may include taking full body and facial photographs to document the infant's condition. Additionally, radiographic examinations may be performed to detect any new or healing bone fractures, skeletal dysplasia, metaphysitis, and cerebral calcifications, as well as to assess bone maturation at ossification centers. The necropsy process also involves precise measurements of the body, including weight, crown-to-heel length, crown-to-rump length, head circumference, and foot length. A detailed examination of the head, facial features, skin, chest, abdomen, and other anatomical structures is conducted to identify any abnormalities or signs of trauma. The examination extends to the cord, placenta, and membranes, if they are still attached, to check for conditions such as umbilical hypercoiling or knots, chorioamnionitis, and infarction. Furthermore, the genitalia are assessed to determine gender and the patency of the anus, vagina, and urethra. The back and spine are also scrutinized for neural tube defects and other notable features. Following the gross examination, a meticulous analysis of the internal organs is performed, along with a microscopic examination of fluid and tissue specimens collected during the autopsy. This comprehensive approach ensures that all relevant findings are documented and analyzed, contributing to a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding the infant's death.