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Official Description

Hepatotomy; for percutaneous drainage of abscess or cyst, 1 or 2 stages

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 47011 refers to a hepatotomy procedure specifically designed for the percutaneous drainage of an abscess or cyst. This procedure is performed using a minimally invasive technique, which involves accessing the liver through the skin rather than through an open surgical approach. The primary goal of this procedure is to effectively drain fluid collections, such as abscesses or cysts, that may be causing discomfort or posing a risk of infection. The percutaneous method allows for a more targeted approach, reducing recovery time and minimizing the risks associated with larger surgical incisions. During the procedure, imaging guidance—such as fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or CT—is utilized to accurately locate the abscess or cyst, ensuring precise placement of the drainage catheter. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be suitable candidates for more invasive surgical interventions due to underlying health conditions or the nature of the abscess or cyst. Overall, CPT® Code 47011 represents a critical intervention in managing liver-related fluid collections, facilitating quicker recovery and effective treatment outcomes.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 47011 is indicated for the management of specific conditions involving the liver, particularly when there are fluid collections that require drainage. The following are the explicitly provided indications for performing this procedure:

  • Abscess A localized collection of pus within the liver, often resulting from infection, which may cause pain, fever, and other systemic symptoms.
  • Cyst A fluid-filled sac within the liver that may be symptomatic or asymptomatic, but requires drainage if it becomes large or infected.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 47011 involves several critical steps to ensure effective drainage of the abscess or cyst. The following procedural steps are outlined:

  • Preparation The skin over the planned puncture site is thoroughly prepped to minimize the risk of infection. This includes cleansing the area with antiseptic solutions.
  • Needle Insertion A needle is carefully advanced into the cyst or abscess under imaging guidance, which may include fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or CT. This step is crucial for accurately targeting the fluid collection.
  • Guidewire Placement Once the needle is correctly positioned within the cyst or abscess, a guidewire is threaded through the needle. The needle is then withdrawn, leaving the guidewire in place to facilitate the next step.
  • Catheter Insertion A catheter is threaded over the guidewire, which is subsequently withdrawn. The catheter remains in place to allow for continuous drainage of the abscess or cyst.
  • Alternative Drainage Method In some cases, drainage may be accomplished using a trocar instead of a catheter, depending on the specific circumstances of the procedure.
  • Flushing After successful drainage, the abscess or cyst is flushed with an antibiotic solution to help prevent infection and promote healing.
  • Post-Procedure Care The catheter or trocar is left in place, and the drainage site is flushed daily until the infection resolves, ensuring effective management of the fluid collection.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the completion of the procedure, specific post-procedure care is essential to ensure proper healing and resolution of the infection. The catheter or trocar remains in place to facilitate ongoing drainage, and the site is flushed daily with an antibiotic solution until the infection has resolved. Patients may be monitored for any signs of complications, such as persistent fever or abdominal pain, which could indicate the need for further intervention. Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the drainage and to determine when the catheter can be safely removed. Overall, careful post-procedure management is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes and preventing recurrence of the abscess or cyst.

Short Descr PERCUT DRAIN LIVER LESION
Medium Descr HEPATOTOMY PRQ DRG ABSCESS/CYST 1/2 STAGES
Long Descr Hepatotomy; for percutaneous drainage of abscess or cyst, 1 or 2 stages
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 000 - Endoscopic or Minor Procedure
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 1 - Statutory payment restriction for assistants at surgery applies to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Procedure or Service, Multiple Reduction Applies
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 99 - Other OR gastrointestinal therapeutic procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2014-01-01 Deleted Deleted
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2010-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
1998-01-01 Added Code added.
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