What does the CPT code 43500 represent?

The CPT code 43500 represents gastrotomy, a surgical procedure involving the incision into the stomach. This code is specifically used to describe the access created to the stomach, often for direct examination, removal of lesions, or to facilitate other procedures.

In the context of the choices, it is crucial to differentiate gastrotomy from the other procedures listed. Gastrectomy refers to the surgical removal of all or part of the stomach, while gastrostomy involves creating an opening in the abdominal wall into the stomach for feeding purposes. Gastrojejunostomy is a surgical procedure connecting the stomach to the jejunum, bypassing a portion of the small intestine. Each of these procedures serves different clinical purposes and is identified by distinct CPT codes. The specificity of 43500 denotes an incision into the stomach rather than any of these other surgical actions.