ventriculo-peritoneal shunt placement

Which is the appropriate way for a general surgeon to submit charges for this--62223-62 (Creation of shunt; ventriculo-peritoneal, -pleural, other terminus) , or 49324 (Laparoscopy, surgical; with insertion of intraperitoneal cannula or catheter, permanent)?

The description of 62223 in Coder's Desk Reference is not especially helpful. I know what my inclination would be, but I'd like a really concise explanation that I can show to other people. I have never been able to find a satisfactory answer to this question.

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement

CPT 62223 includes placing the ventricular (brain) portion as well as the peritoneal (abdomen) catheter of the shunt. So if two different surgeons perform different parts of the same CPT code, as in the scenario you suggest, then each reports 62223-62.

Kim Pollock, RN, MBA, CPC
KarenZupko & Associates, Inc.
www.karenzupko.com