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CPT®
49061

CPT® Code 49061
Deleted

Official Description

Drainage of retroperitoneal abscess; percutaneous

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A retroperitoneal abscess is defined as a localized collection of pus situated in the abdominal cavity, specifically behind the peritoneum. This condition may also be referred to as an extraperitoneal abscess. The management of such an abscess can be approached in different ways, with CPT® Code 49061 specifically denoting the percutaneous drainage method. In this procedure, a healthcare professional utilizes imaging guidance—such as fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT)—to accurately locate the abscess. A needle is inserted into the suspected abscess cavity to aspirate fluid, which is essential for confirming the presence of pus. Following this confirmation, a drainage catheter is placed within the abscess cavity to facilitate the drainage of the collected pus. The procedure also involves flushing the abscess cavity with sterile saline or an antibiotic solution to ensure the removal of any residual pus, blood, or necrotic tissue. The placement of the drainage catheter allows for continuous drainage, which is crucial for the effective management of the abscess and aids in the patient's recovery process.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure described by CPT® Code 49061 is indicated for the management of a retroperitoneal abscess. This condition may arise due to various underlying issues, including but not limited to:

  • Infection: The presence of an infection in the retroperitoneal space can lead to the formation of an abscess.
  • Trauma: Injury to the abdominal area may result in the accumulation of pus in the retroperitoneal cavity.
  • Post-surgical complications: Surgical procedures in the abdominal region can sometimes lead to abscess formation as a complication.

2. Procedure

The procedure for percutaneous drainage of a retroperitoneal abscess involves several critical steps to ensure effective management of the condition.

  • Step 1: The first step involves the use of imaging guidance, which may include fluoroscopy, ultrasound, or CT, to accurately identify the location of the suspected abscess within the retroperitoneal space. This imaging is essential for ensuring precise needle placement.
  • Step 2: Once the abscess is located, a needle is carefully inserted into the abscess cavity. This step is crucial as it allows for the aspiration of fluid from the cavity, which is necessary to confirm the presence of pus.
  • Step 3: After confirming the presence of pus through fluid aspiration, a drainage catheter is then placed into the abscess cavity. This catheter is vital for facilitating the drainage of the abscess contents.
  • Step 4: Following the placement of the drainage catheter, the abscess cavity is flushed with sterile saline or an antibiotic solution. This flushing process is important to clear the cavity of any remaining pus, blood, or necrotic tissue, promoting a cleaner environment for healing.
  • Step 5: Finally, the drainage catheter is left in place to provide continuous drainage of the abscess cavity, which is essential for effective management and recovery.

3. Post-Procedure

After the percutaneous drainage procedure, patients are typically monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or bleeding. The drainage catheter remains in place for a specified duration to ensure that the abscess continues to drain effectively. Follow-up imaging may be required to assess the resolution of the abscess. Patients may also receive instructions regarding care for the drainage site and any necessary follow-up appointments to evaluate the healing process.
Short Descr DRAIN PERCUT RETROPER ABSC
Medium Descr DRG RETROPERITONEAL ABSCESS PERCUTANEOUS
Long Descr Drainage of retroperitoneal abscess; percutaneous
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) none
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.
1998-01-01 Added Code added.
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