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Official Description

Hymenotomy, simple incision

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Hymenotomy, as indicated by CPT® Code 56442, refers to a surgical procedure involving a simple incision of the hymen. The hymen is a thin membrane that can either partially or completely obstruct the vaginal opening. In certain cases, this membrane may be unusually thick or rigid, which can lead to complications such as difficulty with menstrual flow or challenges during sexual intercourse. The procedure is considered minor and is typically performed under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. During the hymenotomy, the surgeon makes an incision in a star-shaped pattern, which allows for the effective opening of the hymen. This intervention is aimed at restoring normal physiological function and alleviating any associated symptoms that may arise from a constricted hymen.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure of hymenotomy is indicated for specific conditions related to the hymen that may cause discomfort or functional issues. The following are the primary indications for performing this procedure:

  • Thick or Rigid Hymen - A hymen that is unusually thick or rigid can obstruct menstrual flow and cause pain during intercourse.
  • Menstrual Flow Obstruction - In cases where the hymen prevents the normal passage of menstrual products, hymenotomy may be necessary to facilitate proper menstrual hygiene.
  • Painful Intercourse - Women experiencing dyspareunia (painful intercourse) due to a constricted hymen may benefit from this procedure to alleviate discomfort.

2. Procedure

The hymenotomy procedure involves several key steps that ensure the effective incision of the hymen. Each step is crucial for achieving the desired outcome while minimizing patient discomfort.

  • Preparation - The patient is positioned comfortably, and the area is prepared for the procedure. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring that the patient experiences minimal pain during the incision.
  • Incision - The surgeon makes a simple incision in the hymen, typically in a star-shaped pattern. This design is intended to create multiple points of release, allowing for adequate opening of the hymen without excessive tissue removal.
  • Assessment - After the incision, the surgeon assesses the area to ensure that the hymen has been adequately opened and that there are no complications. This step is essential for confirming that the procedure has achieved its intended purpose.
  • Post-Procedure Care - Once the procedure is complete, the patient is monitored briefly to ensure there are no immediate complications. Instructions for post-procedure care are provided to promote healing and prevent infection.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the hymenotomy, patients can expect a relatively quick recovery. Post-procedure care typically includes instructions to avoid sexual intercourse and strenuous activities for a specified period to allow for proper healing. Patients may experience some mild discomfort or spotting, which is generally manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. It is important for patients to follow any specific care instructions provided by their healthcare provider to ensure optimal recovery and to monitor for any signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding or infection.

Short Descr HYMENOTOMY
Medium Descr HYMENOTOMY SIMPLE INCISION
Long Descr Hymenotomy, simple incision
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 Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1G - Major procedure - Other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 132 - Other OR therapeutic procedures, female organs
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
59 Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25.
80 Assistant surgeon: surgical assistant services may be identified by adding modifier 80 to the usual procedure number(s).
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
Date
Action
Notes
2007-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2007.
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