ICD code definitions

CPT® Code 74283: Therapeutic Enema for Reduction of Intussusception or Obstruction

June 4, 2026
3 min read
CPT® Code 74283

CPT® Code 74283 is used to report a therapeutic enema performed under imaging guidance to reduce intussusception or relieve certain types of intestinal obstruction. This procedure is both diagnostic and therapeutic, typically performed using contrast, air, or saline under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance.

It is most commonly used in pediatric patients, where non-surgical reduction of intussusception is often the first-line treatment.

Key Facts About CPT® 74283

  • Service type: Radiologic procedure (therapeutic)
  • Procedure: Enema for reduction of intussusception or obstruction
  • Guidance: Imaging (fluoroscopy or ultrasound)
  • Setting: Hospital or outpatient imaging center
  • Provider type: Radiologists and qualified healthcare professionals

Common clinical indications:

  • Intussusception (especially in pediatric patients)
  • Suspected bowel obstruction amenable to enema reduction
  • Acute abdominal pain with imaging-confirmed intussusception
  • Non-surgical management of intestinal telescoping

When to Use CPT® 74283

CPT 74283 is appropriate when:

  • Performing a therapeutic enema to reduce intussusception or obstruction
  • Imaging guidance is used to monitor and guide the procedure
  • The procedure is intended to resolve the condition without surgery
  • Clinical and imaging findings support this intervention

Examples:

  • Air or contrast enema performed to reduce ileocolic intussusception in a child
  • Imaging-guided enema to relieve a non-complex bowel obstruction
  • Therapeutic radiologic intervention following diagnostic confirmation of intussusception

Documentation Requirements

To support CPT 74283 billing, documentation should include:

  • Patient identifiers and date of service
  • Clinical indication (e.g., suspected or confirmed intussusception)
  • Type of enema used (air, contrast, saline)
  • Imaging modality and guidance details
  • Procedure description and technique
  • Outcome of the procedure (successful or unsuccessful reduction)
  • Patient tolerance and any complications
  • Radiology report and provider signature

Detailed documentation is essential to demonstrate both the therapeutic intent and imaging guidance.

Reimbursement and Coding Considerations

  • CPT 74283 is generally reimbursed when medically necessary
  • Includes imaging guidance and supervision/interpretation
  • Distinguish from diagnostic contrast enemas, which use different CPT codes
  • Typically performed in facility settings with appropriate imaging capabilities
  • May reduce the need for surgical intervention if successful
  • Payer policies may vary based on indication and patient population

Always verify payer-specific radiology and procedural billing guidelines.

How OptiMantra Supports Procedure Documentation and Coordination

OptiMantra’s integrated EMR and practice management system helps streamline documentation and coordination for CPT 74283:

With OptiMantra, providers can:

  • Document imaging-guided procedures within the patient chart
  • Track diagnostic findings and therapeutic interventions together
  • Link radiology reports to clinical diagnoses and treatment plans
  • Maintain organized procedural documentation that supports billing compliance and audit preparedness
  • Coordinate care across referring providers and specialists

By centralizing clinical and procedural data, OptiMantra helps practices improve efficiency, ensure compliance, and support coordinated patient care.

Try OptiMantra for free here!

Disclaimer: CPT® codes are maintained by the American Medical Association. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace official coding guidelines or payer policies.

Jessica Castro
Jessica Castro

Jessica is a Massachusetts-based LPN with 13+ years of experience in patient care, healthcare technology, and education. As the Implementation and Customer Success Manager at OptiMantra, she helps providers optimize EMR solutions for better workflows and patient outcomes. With a Bachelor's in Community Health and a Master's in Healthcare Innovation in progress, she is passionate about leveraging technology to improve care delivery. Through her writing, she shares insights on healthcare best practices, EHR optimization, and patient advocacy to support providers in delivering exceptional care.