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Code deleted, see 43756, 43757.

Official Description

Duodenal intubation and aspiration; collection of multiple fractional specimens with pancreatic or gallbladder stimulation, single or double lumen tube

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Duodenal intubation and aspiration is a medical procedure that involves the insertion of a tube into the duodenum, which is the first section of the small intestine. This procedure is performed to collect fluid samples from the duodenum for diagnostic purposes. The process typically includes stimulating the pancreas or gallbladder to enhance the secretion of digestive fluids, which allows for the collection of multiple fractional specimens. The use of a single or double lumen tube facilitates the withdrawal of these fluids over a specified period, enabling healthcare professionals to analyze the samples for various conditions related to pancreatic or gallbladder function. This procedure is essential for diagnosing disorders such as pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and other gastrointestinal issues, providing critical information that can guide treatment decisions.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Duodenal intubation and aspiration is indicated for the evaluation of various gastrointestinal conditions. The following are specific indications for performing this procedure:

  • Pancreatitis - This condition involves inflammation of the pancreas, and the procedure can help assess pancreatic function and enzyme levels.
  • Gallbladder Disease - The procedure aids in diagnosing issues related to gallbladder function, including gallstones or cholecystitis.
  • Malabsorption Syndromes - It is used to investigate conditions where the body cannot properly absorb nutrients from food.
  • Suspicion of Tumors - The procedure can assist in identifying pancreatic or duodenal tumors by analyzing the collected fluid for abnormal cells.

2. Procedure

The procedure of duodenal intubation and aspiration involves several key steps to ensure accurate collection of fluid samples. The following outlines the procedural steps:

  • Step 1: Preparation - The patient is prepared for the procedure, which may include fasting for a specified period prior to the intubation. This ensures that the duodenum is clear of food, allowing for optimal fluid collection.
  • Step 2: Insertion of the Tube - A single or double lumen tube is carefully inserted through the mouth or nose and advanced into the duodenum. The placement of the tube is confirmed to ensure it is correctly positioned in the first section of the small intestine.
  • Step 3: Stimulation - Once the tube is in place, the pancreas or gallbladder is stimulated, typically through the administration of specific substances that promote the secretion of digestive fluids. This stimulation is crucial for obtaining accurate and representative fluid samples.
  • Step 4: Aspiration of Fluid - Fluid is then withdrawn from the duodenum through the tube. Multiple fractional specimens are collected over a designated time period, allowing for comprehensive analysis of the digestive secretions.
  • Step 5: Sample Collection - The collected samples are carefully labeled and stored for laboratory analysis. Each sample may be tested for various enzymes, bacteria, or other substances relevant to the patient's condition.

3. Post-Procedure

After the duodenal intubation and aspiration procedure, patients are typically monitored for any immediate complications, such as discomfort or adverse reactions to the stimulation. It is common for patients to experience some throat irritation or abdominal discomfort following the procedure. Recovery time may vary, but patients are usually advised to resume normal activities after a short observation period. Additionally, the healthcare provider will discuss the results of the fluid analysis with the patient during a follow-up appointment, which is essential for determining the next steps in diagnosis or treatment based on the findings.

Short Descr SAMPLE INTESTINAL CONTENTS
Medium Descr DUOL INTUBAJ&ASPIR COLLJ MLT FXJAL SPEC
Long Descr Duodenal intubation and aspiration; collection of multiple fractional specimens with pancreatic or gallbladder stimulation, single or double lumen tube
Status Code Active Code
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 0 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Ancillary Services
Type of Service (TOS) 5 - Diagnostic Laboratory
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 235 - Other Laboratory
Date
Action
Notes
2011-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, see 43756, 43757.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
Code
Description
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