Reconstruction - DOC_Reconstruction -

“The Keller Funnel™ definitely makes the process of inserting a silicone implant easier, permitting a smaller incision, and less trauma to the implant shell and surrounding patient tissue.”

— Alan Gold, MD Great Neck, NY

Reconstruction with the Keller Funnel™

Using the Keller Funnel™ in breast reconstruction has many benefits:

Eliminate an incision site
No-touch placement of the implant
Minimizing deep layer closure
Simplifying handling of larger implants
Gentler delivery process

The video below demonstrates how the Keller Funnel™ can be used during reconstruction with a technique that allows removal of a tissue expander through a skate flap for nipple complex reconstruction, followed by insertion of the silicone implant through that single incision site.

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Step-by-Step Procedures

This step-by-step procedural piece will take you through the procedure as performed by Dr. Kevin Keller and Upstate Plastic Surgery.

Keller Funnel™ in Reconstruction: Step-by-Step
109 Mb PDF

Reimbursement

The following information may be helpful when filing for reimbursement for the Keller Funnel™.

The suggested coding is: A4649 - DME miscellaneous surgical supply.
Since this category is DME surgical supply, it should be line itemed on the claim and not grouped in with regular surgical supply. This category is “DME/Miscellaneous” supply. Normally we all think of DME as crutches, wheelchairs, etc, but as the Keller Funnel™ is actually a “surgical device” this should work well.
Even though claims will most likely be sent electronically, you may wish to follow-up by sending a paper claim WITH a Keller invoice. This will make the supply “real” in the eyes of the payer. Keep in mind, the charge for the funnel on the claim must be equal to the invoice amount. You may also be able to add to your own claim for reimbursement if you are the one purchasing the funnels. Normally, a payer would not allow a physician to bill for sterile supplies when performed in a hospital, as they would expect these charges on the hospital claim. Please note that this does not guarantee payment. Reimbursement statistics and procedures apply to U.S. practices only.

Sample Letter of Medical Necessity
185 Kb PDF

Press Release

The following press release was sent out to all major medical news outlets and markets, explaining about the Keller Funnel™ and it’s use in breast reconstruction, to assist in educating the public about the benefits of physicians using the Funnel.

Press Release: Using the Keller Funnel™ in Breast Reconstruction
345 Kb PDF

Patient Education Brochure

Patient Education Brochure
948 Kb PDF

If you have tips or special techniques that you have developed and would like to share, please let us know—we would be happy to post them on our website for other surgeons to learn about.