Ask Dr. Z

Could you please tell me if unlisted code 43499 should be used in this scenario, or can code 43453 be used? I am thinking of the unlisted but need help. "A 5 French Berenstein catheter, in combination with a 0.035 inch Amplatz guidewire, was advanced through the oropharynx and cervical esophagus across the anastomosis and into the thoracic stomach. A 14 mm Atlas balloon was advanced over the guidewire and into appropriate position. The balloon was inflated. The waist resolved with inflation to 20 atmospheres. The balloon was left inflated for 1.5 minutes. The balloon was then deflated and removed. Repeat dilation was performed using a 16 mm balloon and inflated to 20 atm for 1.5 minutes. A repeat esophagram was performed. This demonstrated improvement in luminal caliber. There was no extravasation demonstrated."