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Code deleted, to report see 47531-47541

Official Description

Injection procedure for cholangiography through an existing catheter (eg, percutaneous transhepatic or T-tube)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 47505 refers to an injection procedure specifically designed for cholangiography, which is a diagnostic imaging technique used to visualize the bile ducts. This procedure is performed through an existing catheter, such as a percutaneous transhepatic drainage catheter or a T-tube, which has already been placed in the patient. The primary purpose of this injection is to introduce contrast media into the bile ducts, allowing for enhanced visualization during imaging studies. This is particularly important for diagnosing conditions affecting the biliary system, such as obstructions, strictures, or other abnormalities. It is essential to note that this code pertains solely to the injection of contrast media and does not include the radiographic supervision and interpretation of the cholangiogram, which must be reported separately. The use of an existing catheter streamlines the procedure, as it eliminates the need for additional invasive access to the bile ducts, thereby reducing patient risk and discomfort while still providing critical diagnostic information.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The injection procedure for cholangiography using CPT® Code 47505 is indicated for various clinical scenarios where visualization of the bile ducts is necessary. The following conditions may warrant this procedure:

  • Obstructive Jaundice - This condition occurs when there is a blockage in the bile ducts, leading to the accumulation of bile and subsequent jaundice.
  • Biliary Strictures - Narrowing of the bile ducts can occur due to various reasons, including previous surgeries, inflammation, or malignancies, necessitating evaluation through cholangiography.
  • Cholecystitis - Inflammation of the gallbladder may require assessment of the bile ducts to rule out complications such as stones or infections.
  • Postoperative Evaluation - Following surgeries involving the biliary system, such as cholecystectomy, cholangiography may be performed to ensure the integrity of the bile ducts.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 47505 involves the following steps:

  • Existing Catheter Utilization - The procedure begins with the identification of an existing catheter, such as a percutaneous transhepatic drainage catheter or a T-tube, which has been previously placed in the patient. This catheter serves as the access point for the injection of contrast media.
  • Injection of Contrast Media - Once the existing catheter is confirmed, a contrast media is injected through the catheter into the bile ducts. This step is crucial as it allows for the visualization of the biliary anatomy during imaging studies.
  • Visualization of Bile Ducts - Following the injection of contrast media, imaging studies are conducted to visualize the bile ducts. This imaging is essential for diagnosing any abnormalities or conditions affecting the biliary system.

3. Post-Procedure

After the injection procedure for cholangiography is completed, the patient may be monitored for any immediate adverse reactions to the contrast media. It is important to ensure that the existing catheter remains patent and functional for any potential future interventions. The results of the cholangiogram will be interpreted separately by a radiologist, and any findings will be communicated to the referring physician for further management. Patients may be advised on any specific post-procedure care, including hydration to help flush the contrast media from their system and monitoring for any signs of complications.

Short Descr INJECTION FOR LIVER X-RAYS
Medium Descr INJ PX CHOLANGIOGRAPHY VIA CATHETER/T-TUBE
Long Descr Injection procedure for cholangiography through an existing catheter (eg, percutaneous transhepatic or T-tube)
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) 0 - 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 Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 226 - Other diagnostic radiology and related techniques
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Code deleted, to report see 47531-47541
1993-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1993.
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