DeClogger^® for Enteral Feeding Tubes

Indications

The DeClogger is indicated for use only in clearing occlusions and/or clogs in feeding tubes (G, J, and/or PEG style) in sizes from 14 Fr – 22 Fr. The DeClogger styles are indicated for use as follows: • DG-00911: For G or J type enteral feeding tubes that are 14 – 16 French, and of a length greater than 39.5 cm (~15.5 in) • DG-00912: For G or J type enteral feeding tubes that are 16 – 22 French, and of a length greater than 39.5 cm (~15.5 in) • DG-00913: For G or J type enteral feeding tubes that are 20 – 22 French, and of a length greater than 39.5 cm (~15.5 in) • DG-00921: For PEG or Replacement type enteral feeding tubes that are 14 – 16 French, and of a length greater than 21.5 cm (~8.5 in) • DG-00922: For PEG or Replacement type enteral feeding tubes that are 18 – 24 French, and of a length greater than 21.5 cm (~8.5 in)

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications related to the use of the DeCloggers in clearing enteral feeding tube obstructions.

Who Should Use This Product

Professional Use Only

FAQs

• How do I order this product?

   You can order by contacting Bionix directly (bionix@bionix.com or 800.551.7096) or contacting your distributor of choice.

• Can the DeClogger® be reused?

  The DeClogger® is designed for single-use only.

• Can the DeClogger® work on a nasogastric or nasojejunal tube?

  No, these tubes are longer in length and have a smaller French size.

• Can you purchase the DeClogger® if you are not a Medical Professional?

  No, the Declogger® can only be used by a licensed Medical Professional.

• Is there a Medicare reimbursement code for this procedure?

  The DeClogger is filed under HCPCS Level II Code B9998; this is a National level Medicare Part B code, therefore, it is only billable to DMERC when used on a patient. Since this product is filed under Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (PEN), coverage is extended to patients in nursing homes and some intermediate and extended care facilities, as well as home care. Requirements for coverage under B9998 include:

  1. The patient must be considered permanently impaired with regard to the need for enteral therapy (CIM65-10 to CIM65-10.3).

  2. There must be a physician’s order for enteral therapy. This will cover all necessary accessories and supplies. This will also cover repairs necessary to make the item serviceable.

  3. There must be a PEN Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) accompanying the initial claim submitted and updated every 3 months thereafter. The CMN for PEN covers use of DeClogger.

  Since B9998 is a general/miscellaneous code, coverage is NOT guaranteed. Reimbursements for general codes like B9998 are handled on a case-by-case basis by the local DMERC. The best a facility can do to insure reimbursement is to include the required written description of the product and why it was needed. It is important that the facility be as specific as possible when submitting the claim to Medicare and references the DeClogger by name. Include additional information such as what was clogging the tube and why the DeClogger specifically was needed. Including information on clinical effectiveness and cost justifications will also help the claim to be covered.

  Please consult with your billing specialist with any further questions.

• Can the DeClogger® harm the patient in any way?

  The DeClogger® has a small disc at the handle that prevents over-insertion. The design of the device with its standardized length and flexible plastic molding are added safeguards.