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Dr. Dennis Whitmer, DO

Des Moines, IA

22 Years of Experience

Accepting patients

Affiliated with a Castle Connolly Top Hospital

    Who is Dr. Whitmer, Surgeon in Des Moines, IA?

    Dr. Dennis Whitmer, DO is a Surgeon, who primarily practices in Des Moines, IA with 2 additional practice locations. He has been practicing for over 22 years. Dr. Whitmer graduated from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Whitmer is fluent in English, and is currently seeing new patients. Dr. Whitmer’s practice accepts Medicaid, Medicare and other major insurance plans. To book an appointment or to confirm insurance options, please call Dr. Whitmer’s office.

    Where did Dr. Whitmer go to medical school and complete their residency?

    • Medical School: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences | Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine

    What languages does Dr. Whitmer speak?

    Dr. Whitmer and their clinical team can communicate with patients in the following languages:

    • English

    What conditions does Dr. Whitmer treat?

    As a Surgeon, Dr. Whitmer diagnoses, treats, and manages a wide range of conditions. This condition information is derived from anonymized insurance claims and highlights the medical conditions most commonly treated by Dr. Whitmer. It provides insight into the doctor’s areas of experience and expertise based on real-world patient encounters from the past two years, updated quarterly.

    Also known as:

    • Groin Hernia (One Side)
    • Incisional Hernia
    • Umbilical Hernia
    • Hernia
    • Inguinal Hernia
    • Unilateral Inguinal Hernia
    • Single Groin Hernia
    • Hernia in One Groin
    • Post-surgical Hernia
    • Surgical Incision Hernia
    • Scar Hernia
    • Belly Button Hernia
    • Navel Hernia
    • Umbilical Rupture

    ICD-10 Codes:

    • K4090: Unilateral inguinal hernia, without obstruction or gangrene, not specified as recurrent
    • K432: Incisional hernia without obstruction or gangrene
    • K429: Umbilical hernia without obstruction or gangrene

    Also known as:

    • Follow-up After Treatment (Non-Cancer)
    • Post-Treatment Check-up
    • Aftercare Visit
    • Recovery Monitoring Exam

    ICD-10 Codes:

    • Z09: Encounter for follow-up examination after completed treatment for conditions other than malignant neoplasm

    Also known as:

    • Gallstones
    • Cholelithiasis
    • Gallbladder stones
    • Biliary calculi

    ICD-10 Codes:

    • K8020: Calculus of gallbladder without cholecystitis without obstruction

    Also known as:

    • Colon Cancer Screening
    • Health Screening
    • Colorectal Cancer Screening (PDQ®)
    • Screening Tests to Detect Colorectal Cancer and Polyps
    • Tests to Detect Colorectal Cancer and Polyps
    • Colorectal Cancer Screening
    • Colonoscopy Screening
    • Bowel Cancer Screening

    ICD-10 Codes:

    • Z1211: Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of colon

    Also known as:

    • Chronic Gallbladder Inflammation
    • Gallbladder Disease
    • Long-term Gallbladder Inflammation
    • Chronic Cholecystitis
    • Ongoing Gallbladder Issues

    ICD-10 Codes:

    • K811: Chronic cholecystitis

    What procedures does Dr. Whitmer perform?

    As a Surgeon, Dr. Whitmer performs a variety of medical procedures. This procedure information is derived from anonymized insurance claims and highlights the medical procedures most commonly performed by Dr. Whitmer. It provides insight into the doctor’s areas of experience and expertise based on real-world patient encounters from the past two years, updated quarterly.

    Also known as:

    • Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
    • Abdominal Hernia Repair with Mesh
    • Small Abdominal Hernia Repair
    • Large Abdominal Hernia Repair
    • Inguinal Hernia Repair (Adults and Children 5+)
    • Laparoscopic Repair of Recurrent Inguinal Hernia
    • Repair of Small Abdominal Hernia (Complicated)
    • Large Recurrent Abdominal Hernia Repair
    • Laparoscopic Hernia Repair (Ventral, Umbilical, or Epigastric)
    • Emergency Groin Hernia Repair
    • Hernia Mesh Implantation
    • Recurrent Abdominal Hernia Repair (Small)
    • Keyhole Groin Hernia Surgery
    • Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair
    • Laparoscopic Hernioplasty
    • Ventral Hernia Repair
    • Umbilical Hernia Repair
    • Incisional Hernia Repair
    • Epigastric Hernia Surgery
    • Ventral hernia repair
    • Umbilical hernia surgery
    • Epigastric hernia repair with mesh
    • Incisional hernia repair
    • Incisional Hernia Surgery
    • Groin Hernia Surgery
    • Reducible Inguinal Hernia Repair
    • First Inguinal Hernia Fix
    • Adult Inguinal Hernia Surgery
    • Recurrent Abdominal Hernia Surgery
    • Recurrent Groin Hernia Surgery
    • Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernioplasty
    • Epigastric Hernia Repair
    • Umbilical Hernia Surgery
    • Incisional Hernia Repair with Mesh
    • Strangulated Hernia Surgery
    • Recurrent Ventral Hernia Repair
    • Repeat Abdominal Hernia Surgery
    • Large Incisional Hernia Repair
    • Reducible Hernia Repair with Mesh
    • Minimally invasive hernia surgery
    • Laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair
    • Laparoscopic ventral hernia repair with mesh
    • Inguinal Hernia Surgery
    • Strangulated Hernia Repair
    • Incarcerated Hernia Surgery
    • Hernia Prosthesis Placement
    • Incisional Hernia Mesh
    • Ventral Hernia Mesh
    • Soft Tissue Infection Mesh

    CPT Codes:

    • 49650: Laparoscopy, surgical; repair initial inguinal hernia
    • 49593: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), initial, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); 3 cm to 10 cm, reducible
    • 49591: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), initial, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); less than 3 cm, reducible
    • 49595: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), initial, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); greater than 10 cm, reducible
    • 49505: Repair initial inguinal hernia, age 5 years or older; reducible
    • 49615: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), recurrent, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); 3 cm to 10 cm, reducible
    • 49651: Laparoscopy, surgical; repair recurrent inguinal hernia
    • 49592: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), initial, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); less than 3 cm, incarcerated or strangulated
    • 49617: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), recurrent, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); greater than 10 cm, reducible
    • 49652: Laparoscopy, surgical, repair, ventral, umbilical, spigelian or epigastric hernia (includes mesh insertion, when performed); reducible
    • 49507: Repair initial inguinal hernia, age 5 years or older; incarcerated or strangulated
    • 49568: Implantation of mesh or other prosthesis for open incisional or ventral hernia repair or mesh for closure of debridement for necrotizing soft tissue infection (List separately in addition to code for the incisional or ventral hernia repair)
    • 49613: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), recurrent, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); less than 3 cm, reducible

    Also known as:

    • Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal
    • Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal with X-ray
    • Keyhole Gallbladder Surgery
    • Cholecystectomy Laparoscopic
    • Minimally Invasive Gallbladder Surgery
    • Cholecystectomy with Cholangiography
    • Minimally Invasive Gallbladder Removal

    CPT Codes:

    • 47562: Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy
    • 47563: Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystectomy with cholangiography

    Also known as:

    • Diagnostic Colonoscopy with Biopsy
    • Colonoscopy with Biopsy
    • Colonoscopy with Polyp Removal
    • Colonoscopy
    • Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests
    • Flexible Colonoscopy
    • Colon Exam with Biopsy
    • Lower Endoscopy
    • Colon Cancer Screening
    • Colon Biopsy
    • Large Intestine Scope
    • Colorectal Cancer Screening
    • Flexible Colonoscopy with Polypectomy
    • Colon Polyp Removal
    • Colorectal Lesion Excision

    CPT Codes:

    • 45378: Colonoscopy, flexible; diagnostic, including collection of specimen(s) by brushing or washing, when performed (separate procedure)
    • 45380: Colonoscopy, flexible; with biopsy, single or multiple
    • 45385: Colonoscopy, flexible; with removal of tumor(s), polyp(s), or other lesion(s) by snare technique

    Also known as:

    • Upper Endoscopy with Biopsy
    • Biopsy
    • Endoscopy
    • EGD with Biopsy
    • Gastroscopy with Biopsy
    • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy with Biopsy

    CPT Codes:

    • 43239: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, flexible, transoral; with biopsy, single or multiple

    Also known as:

    • Emergency Abdominal Hernia Repair with Mesh
    • Incarcerated Hernia Repair
    • Strangulated Hernia Surgery
    • Ventral Hernia Repair with Mesh
    • Umbilical Hernia Repair

    CPT Codes:

    • 49594: Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), initial, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); 3 cm to 10 cm, incarcerated or strangulated

    Also known as:

    • EGD with Esophageal Balloon Dilation
    • Diagnostic Upper Endoscopy with Biopsy
    • Upper Endoscopy with Esophageal Dilation
    • Flexible Esophagoscopy with Balloon
    • EGD with Balloon Widening
    • EGD with Biopsy
    • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
    • Upper GI Endoscopy
    • Stomach Scope with Sample

    CPT Codes:

    • 43249: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, flexible, transoral; with transendoscopic balloon dilation of esophagus (less than 30 mm diameter)
    • 43235: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, flexible, transoral; diagnostic, including collection of specimen(s) by brushing or washing, when performed (separate procedure)

    Also known as:

    • Laparoscopic Appendectomy
    • Minimally Invasive Appendectomy
    • Keyhole Appendectomy
    • Scope Appendectomy

    CPT Codes:

    • 44970: Laparoscopy, surgical, appendectomy

    Also known as:

    • Removal of Hernia Mesh During Hernia Repair
    • Abdominal Hernia Mesh Excision
    • Parastomal Hernia Mesh Removal
    • Hernia Prosthesis Removal
    • Mesh Explantation (Hernia Repair)

    CPT Codes:

    • 49623: Removal of total or near total non-infected mesh or other prosthesis at the time of initial or recurrent anterior abdominal hernia repair or parastomal hernia repair, any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic) (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

    Also known as:

    • Laparoscopic Removal of Intestinal Adhesions
    • Laparoscopic Enterolysis
    • Bowel Adhesion Release
    • Minimally Invasive Adhesion Removal
    • Abdominal Adhesion Surgery

    CPT Codes:

    • 44180: Laparoscopy, surgical, enterolysis (freeing of intestinal adhesion) (separate procedure)

    Also known as:

    • Draining a Lump or Collection of Fluid
    • Abscess Aspiration
    • Cyst Drainage
    • Hematoma Puncture
    • Bulla Aspiration

    CPT Codes:

    • 10160: Puncture aspiration of abscess, hematoma, bulla, or cyst

    Also known as:

    • Wound Debridement
    • Skin and Tissue Debridement
    • Surgical Wound Cleaning
    • Tissue Removal from Wound
    • Dead Tissue Removal
    • Wound Cleaning
    • Surgical Debridement
    • Subcutaneous Tissue Debridement

    CPT Codes:

    • 11042: Debridement, subcutaneous tissue (includes epidermis and dermis, if performed); first 20 sq cm or less
    • 11045: Debridement, subcutaneous tissue (includes epidermis and dermis, if performed); each additional 20 sq cm, or part thereof (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

    Also known as:

    • Removal of Benign Skin Lesion
    • Large Benign Skin Lesion Removal
    • Benign Skin Growth Excision
    • Skin Lesion Removal Surgery
    • Mole Removal
    • Skin Tumor Excision
    • Skin Tumor Removal (Benign)
    • Large Skin Lesion Biopsy

    CPT Codes:

    • 11403: Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter 2.1 to 3.0 cm
    • 11406: Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter over 4.0 cm

    Also known as:

    • Removal of Non-Cancerous Skin Growth (1.1-2.0 cm)
    • Removal of Benign Skin Lesion (Trunk/Limbs)
    • Benign Skin Lesion Excision
    • Skin Tumor Removal (Benign)
    • Mole Removal (Non-Cancerous)
    • Benign Skin Growth Excision
    • Skin Lesion Removal Surgery
    • Mole Removal (Large)

    CPT Codes:

    • 11402: Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter 1.1 to 2.0 cm
    • 11404: Excision, benign lesion including margins, except skin tag (unless listed elsewhere), trunk, arms or legs; excised diameter 3.1 to 4.0 cm

    Also known as:

    • Muscle or Skin Flap Surgery (Trunk)
    • Myocutaneous Flap (Body)
    • Fasciocutaneous Flap (Trunk)
    • Tissue Flap Reconstruction (Torso)

    CPT Codes:

    • 15734: Muscle, myocutaneous, or fasciocutaneous flap; trunk

    Also known as:

    • Skin Flap Surgery (Medium)
    • Tissue Rearrangement Surgery
    • Local Flap Surgery
    • Skin Graft (Adjacent Tissue)

    CPT Codes:

    • 14301: Adjacent tissue transfer or rearrangement, any area; defect 30.1 sq cm to 60.0 sq cm

    Also known as:

    • Intermediate Wound Repair (Body)
    • Wounds and Injuries
    • Laceration Repair (Body)
    • Surgical Wound Closure (Trunk/Limbs)
    • Deep Wound Stitching (Body)

    CPT Codes:

    • 12032: Repair, intermediate, wounds of scalp, axillae, trunk and/or extremities (excluding hands and feet); 2.6 cm to 7.5 cm

    Also known as:

    • Tunneled Central Venous Catheter Removal
    • Central Line Explant
    • Port-a-Cath Removal
    • Implantable Venous Access Device Removal
    • Tunneled Catheter Extraction

    CPT Codes:

    • 36590: Removal of tunneled central venous access device, with subcutaneous port or pump, central or peripheral insertion

    Also known as:

    • Inserting a Long-Term IV Port (Central Line)
    • Tunneled central venous catheter insertion
    • Subcutaneous port placement
    • Central line with port

    CPT Codes:

    • 36561: Insertion of tunneled centrally inserted central venous access device, with subcutaneous port; age 5 years or older

    Does Dr. Whitmer accept my insurance?

    Dr. Whitmer accepts most major insurance plans. Important: Please call our office at before your appointment to verify that your specific plan and network are accepted.

    What insurance plans does Dr. Whitmer accept in Des Moines, IA?

    Dr. Whitmer in Des Moines, IA accepts plans from many carriers. While this list is updated regularly, it is not a guarantee of coverage.

    Top Insurances

    • All Other Third Party

    • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska

    • Centene

    • CVS Health (formerly Aetna)

    • Express Scripts

    • Humana

    • Medicare

    • Oscar Health Insurance Co

    • State of Tennessee

    • Wellmark BlueCross BlueShield

    View All Insurances

    Where is Dr. Whitmer's office located?

    Dr. Dennis Whitmer's Primary Practice

    411 Laurel St Ste 2100

    Des Moines, IA 50314

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    Dr. Dennis Whitmer's Practice 2

    640 S 19th St

    Nevada, IA 50201

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    Dr. Dennis Whitmer's Practice 3

    1111 6th Ave

    Des Moines, IA 50314

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    What is Dr. Whitmer's NPI number?An National Provider Identifier (NPI) is a unique ID number that identifies doctors and healthcare providers nationwide.

    Dr. Whitmer's National Provider Identifier (NPI) number is 1124134846.

    What common questions do patients ask about Dr. Whitmer?

    Here are answers to patients Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) about Dr. Whitmer

    What is Dr. Dennis Whitmer's specialty?

    Dr. Whitmer is a Surgeon near Des Moines, IA. General surgeons are experts in diagnosing and managing surgical conditions which includes preoperative, operative, and postoperative care, as well as addressing complications. Their expertise include the areas such as the alimentary tract, breast, abdomen, skin and soft tissue, endocrine system, head and neck, pediatric surgery, surgical critical care, surgical oncology, trauma, burns, and vascular surgery. General surgeons increasingly utilize minimally invasive and endoscopic techniques to provide proper care. In addition to this, many general surgeons have expertise in transplantation, plastic, and cardiothoracic surgery. Contact Dr. Whitmer to book an appointment today.

    Is this Dr. Dennis Whitmer affiliated with a ranked Castle Connolly Top Hospital?

    Yes, Dr. Whitmer is affiliated with MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center which is a Castle Connolly Top Hospital. Castle Connolly Top Hospitals are healthcare institutions recognized for their excellence in specific medical procedures and overall patient care. They are identified through a rigorous peer nomination process, evaluating factors like patient outcomes, quality of care, and expertise. The list recognizes hospitals that excel in 20 or more specific medical procedures, representing the top 25% nationwide. Castle Connolly Top Hospitals

    Where can I learn more about Surgeon?

    Explore Surgeon with insights from trusted medical experts on EverydayHealth.com, where you'll find the most relevant content and helpful condition guides for up-to date information about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment and more. See all our health guides to find trusted information on medical conditions from our experts at Everyday Health.

    Is Dennis Whitmer accepting new patients in Des Moines, IA?

    Yes, Dr. Dennis Whitmer is accepting new patients at this time.

    Does Dr. Dennis Whitmer offer online booking?

    Please contact Dr. Whitmer's office for information about online booking, telehealth, or to schedule an appointment.

    How can I make an appointment with Dennis Whitmer?

    Please contact Dr. Whitmer's office for information regarding telehealth appointment availability or for scheduling assistance.

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