T18.8XXA — Foreign body in other parts of alimentary tract, initial encounter
ICD-10-CM
Prior Authorization
No Prior Auth Required
Code is covered without prior authorization (high confidence)
Documentation Required
- This billing and coding guidance complements Local Coverage Determination L34434; follow LCD L34434 for clinical coverage criteria and required documentation for claims.
- All services billed with unlisted procedure codes must include sufficient medical records and supporting documentation to allow development and medical review.
- This billing and coding article provides guidelines that complement Local Coverage Determination L34415 for CT of the abdomen and pelvis; consult LCD L34415 for specific coverage indications, limitations, and documentation requirements.
- All services ordered or rendered must be signed and dated in the medical record, including a signed and dated office visit record or operative report.
Key Coverage Criteria
- Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) is covered when it meets the reasonable and necessary requirements specified in Local Coverage Determination L33583.
- EGD is covered for persistent upper abdominal distress (e.g., gastroesophageal reflux disease) that continues despite an appropriate trial of symptomatic therapy.
- EGD is covered for upper abdominal distress accompanied by a short history of concerning signs or symptoms such as weight loss, anorexia, vomiting, or NSAID/other gastric irritant intake.
- EGD is covered for patients older than 40 years who have a significant history of heartburn that recurs after a course of symptomatic therapy.
- EGD is covered for patients with dysphagia or odynophagia.
- EGD is covered for persistent, unexplained vomiting.
8 Active Policies
L33583 — Diagnostic and Therapeutic Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
J09
A57063 — Billing and Coding: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
J09
A56456 — Billing and Coding: Colonoscopy/Sigmoidoscopy/Proctosigmoidoscopy
L34434 — Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Visualization
L34415 — CT of the Abdomen and Pelvis
Related Codes
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