Ask Dr. Z

Dr. Z, What would you suggest for the following procedure? 49418 or we can charge both 49418 and 49080? Thanks Using ultrasound guidance, a 5 French sheathed needle was placed in the right lower quadrant. A guidewire was then advanced through the sheath and into the peritoneum. An 8 French all-purpose drain was then advanced over the guidewire and placed within the peritoneum.Approximately 2500 cc of clear straw-colored fluid was aspirated. The fluid was sent for laboratory evaluation. The patient tolerated the procedure well, and there were no immediate complications. IMPRESSION: Ultrasound-guided paracentesis with aspiration of 2500 cc of fluid. Placement of an 8 French all-purpose drain for subsequent chemotherapy.