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Official Description

Laparoscopy, surgical, with total hysterectomy, for uterus 250 g or less; with removal of tube(s) and/or ovary(s)

© Copyright 2025 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at removing the uterus, which in this case weighs 250 grams or less. This procedure is typically performed through the vagina while keeping the uterus intact. The process begins with the insertion of a urinary catheter into the bladder via the urethra to facilitate the surgery. Following this, the cervix is dilated, and a uterine sound is utilized to measure the length of the uterus, ensuring accurate surgical planning. A uterine manipulator is then placed transvaginally through the cervix to assist in maneuvering the uterus during the procedure. To maintain the integrity of the surgical field, a vaginal extender, also known as a cervical cup, is positioned, and an occlusion device is inserted to prevent the loss of air from the peritoneal cavity. The surgeon makes an incision below the umbilicus to insert a laparoscope, which allows for visualization of the abdominal cavity, and the abdomen is insufflated with gas to create a working space. Additional incisions are made suprapubically and bilaterally near the hip bones to accommodate other surgical instruments necessary for the procedure. During the surgery, the ureters are carefully identified and protected to prevent injury. The peritoneum covering the bladder is incised, allowing for dissection of the bladder away from the lower uterine segment, thereby exposing the anterior vagina. An incision is made into the anterior aspect of the vagina, which is then extended laterally and posteriorly while preserving the uterosacral ligament. The utero-ovarian ligament, along with the uterine attachments and associated blood vessels, are divided to facilitate the removal of the uterus. The patient is positioned in high lithotomy to optimize access, and the pneumoperitoneum is allowed to escape. The uterus and cervix are then delivered into the vagina and removed. If applicable, the procedure also includes the delivery and removal of the tube(s) and/or ovary(s) along with the uterus. After the removal, the occlusion device is replaced, and the abdomen is reinflated to complete the procedure. Finally, the vagina is closed using laparoscopic suturing techniques at the apex, which is further supported with sutures in the uterosacral ligaments to prevent potential vaginal prolapse.

© Copyright 2025 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The total laparoscopic hysterectomy (CPT® Code 58571) is indicated for the following conditions:

  • Uterine Fibroids - Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain, heavy bleeding, or other complications.
  • Endometriosis - A condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus, leading to pain and other symptoms.
  • Uterine Prolapse - A condition where the uterus descends into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic support structures.
  • Abnormal Uterine Bleeding - Heavy or irregular bleeding that is not responsive to other treatments.
  • Malignancy - Certain cancers of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries may necessitate a hysterectomy as part of treatment.

2. Procedure

The procedure for a total laparoscopic hysterectomy (CPT® Code 58571) involves several critical steps to ensure successful removal of the uterus and any associated structures.

  • Step 1: Preparation - The patient is positioned appropriately, and a urinary catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to facilitate access during the surgery. The cervix is then dilated, and a uterine sound is inserted to measure the uterine length, which aids in surgical planning.
  • Step 2: Uterine Manipulation - A uterine manipulator is placed transvaginally through the cervix to assist in maneuvering the uterus during the procedure, allowing for better visualization and access.
  • Step 3: Insufflation and Incision - An incision is made below the umbilicus, and a laparoscope is inserted to visualize the abdominal cavity. The abdomen is insufflated with gas to create a working space for the surgical instruments.
  • Step 4: Additional Incisions - Additional suprapubic and bilateral incisions are made near the hip bones to allow for the insertion of other surgical instruments necessary for the procedure.
  • Step 5: Identification of Ureters - The ureters are identified and protected throughout the procedure to prevent any potential injury during the dissection.
  • Step 6: Bladder Dissection - The peritoneum overlying the bladder is incised, and the bladder is carefully dissected off the lower uterine segment, exposing the anterior vagina.
  • Step 7: Vaginal Incision - An incision is made into the anterior aspect of the vagina, which is then extended laterally and posteriorly while preserving the uterosacral ligament to maintain pelvic support.
  • Step 8: Division of Ligaments and Vessels - The utero-ovarian ligament, uterine attachments, and associated blood vessels are divided to facilitate the removal of the uterus.
  • Step 9: Delivery of Uterus - The patient is placed in a high lithotomy position, and the pneumoperitoneum is allowed to escape. The uterus and cervix are then delivered into the vagina for removal.
  • Step 10: Closure - After the uterus is removed, the occlusion device is replaced, and the abdomen is reinflated. The vagina is closed using laparoscopic suturing techniques at the apex, which is supported with sutures in the uterosacral ligaments to prevent vaginal prolapse.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following a total laparoscopic hysterectomy includes monitoring the patient for any signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding or infection. Patients are typically advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a specified period to promote healing. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess recovery and address any concerns. Patients may also receive instructions regarding pain management and activity restrictions to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Short Descr TLH W/T/O 250 G OR LESS
Medium Descr LAPS TOTAL HYSTERECT 250 GM/< W/RMVL TUBE/OVARY
Long Descr Laparoscopy, surgical, with total hysterectomy, for uterus 250 g or less; with removal of tube(s) and/or ovary(s)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
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) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 2 - Co-surgeons permitted and no documentation required if the two- specialty requirement is met.
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 Non office-based surgical procedure added in CY 2008 or later; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P1E - Major procedure - hysterctomy
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 124 - Hysterectomy, abdominal and vaginal

This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.

49327 Addon Code MPFS Status: Active Code APC N ASC N1 Laparoscopy, surgical; with placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance (eg, fiducial markers, dosimeter), intra-abdominal, intrapelvic, and/or retroperitoneum, including imaging guidance, if performed, single or multiple (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
AS Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
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).
80 Assistant surgeon: surgical assistant services may be identified by adding modifier 80 to the usual procedure number(s).
22 Increased procedural services: when the work required to provide a service is substantially greater than typically required, it may be identified by adding modifier 22 to the usual procedure code. documentation must support the substantial additional work and the reason for the additional work (ie, increased intensity, time, technical difficulty of procedure, severity of patient's condition, physical and mental effort required). note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
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.
82 Assistant surgeon (when qualified resident surgeon not available): the unavailability of a qualified resident surgeon is a prerequisite for use of modifier 82 appended to the usual procedure code number(s).
QX Crna service: with medical direction by a physician
P3 A patient with severe systemic disease
62 Two surgeons: when 2 surgeons work together as primary surgeons performing distinct part(s) of a procedure, each surgeon should report his/her distinct operative work by adding modifier 62 to the procedure code and any associated add-on code(s) for that procedure as long as both surgeons continue to work together as primary surgeons. each surgeon should report the co-surgery once using the same procedure code. if additional procedure(s) (including add-on procedure(s) are performed during the same surgical session, separate code(s) may also be reported with modifier 62 added. note: if a co-surgeon acts as an assistant in the performance of additional procedure(s), other than those reported with the modifier 62, during the same surgical session, those services may be reported using separate procedure code(s) with modifier 80 or modifier 82 added, as appropriate.
52 Reduced services: under certain circumstances a service or procedure is partially reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the physician or other qualified health care professional. under these circumstances the service provided can be identified by its usual procedure number and the addition of modifier 52, signifying that the service is reduced. this provides a means of reporting reduced services without disturbing the identification of the basic service. note: for hospital outpatient reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well-being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use).
53 Discontinued procedure: under certain circumstances, the physician or other qualified health care professional may elect to terminate a surgical or diagnostic procedure. due to extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient, it may be necessary to indicate that a surgical or diagnostic procedure was started but discontinued. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 53 to the code reported by the individual for the discontinued procedure. note: this modifier is not used to report the elective cancellation of a procedure prior to the patient's anesthesia induction and/or surgical preparation in the operating suite. for outpatient hospital/ambulatory surgery center (asc) reporting of a previously scheduled procedure/service that is partially reduced or cancelled as a result of extenuating circumstances or those that threaten the well being of the patient prior to or after administration of anesthesia, see modifiers 73 and 74 (see modifiers approved for asc hospital outpatient use).
58 Staged or related procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was: (a) planned or anticipated (staged); (b) more extensive than the original procedure; or (c) for therapy following a surgical procedure. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 58 to the staged or related procedure. note: for treatment of a problem that requires a return to the operating/procedure room (eg, unanticipated clinical condition), see modifier 78.
76 Repeat procedure or service by same physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was repeated by the same physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 76 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
77 Repeat procedure by another physician or other qualified health care professional: it may be necessary to indicate that a basic procedure or service was repeated by another physician or other qualified health care professional subsequent to the original procedure or service. this circumstance may be reported by adding modifier 77 to the repeated procedure or service. note: this modifier should not be appended to an e/m service.
78 Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.)
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
81 Minimum assistant surgeon: minimum surgical assistant services are identified by adding modifier 81 to the usual procedure number.
AG Primary physician
AQ Physician providing a service in an unlisted health professional shortage area (hpsa)
CC Procedure code change (use 'cc' when the procedure code submitted was changed either for administrative reasons or because an incorrect code was filed)
CR Catastrophe/disaster related
FS Split (or shared) evaluation and management visit
GA Waiver of liability statement issued as required by payer policy, individual case
GV Attending physician not employed or paid under arrangement by the patient's hospice provider
GW Service not related to the hospice patient's terminal condition
GZ Item or service expected to be denied as not reasonable and necessary
KX Requirements specified in the medical policy have been met
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
PD Diagnostic or related non diagnostic item or service provided in a wholly owned or operated entity to a patient who is admitted as an inpatient within 3 days
PT Colorectal cancer screening test; converted to diagnostic test or other procedure
Q1 Routine clinical service provided in a clinical research study that is in an approved clinical research study
Q6 Service furnished under a fee-for-time compensation arrangement by a substitute physician or by a substitute physical therapist furnishing outpatient physical therapy services in a health professional shortage area, a medically underserved area, or a rural area
RT Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body)
SA Nurse practitioner rendering service in collaboration with a physician
SG Ambulatory surgical center (asc) facility service
TG Complex/high tech level of care
X4 Episodic/focused services: for reporting services by clinicians who provide focused care on particular types of treatment limited to a defined period and circumstance; the patient has a problem, acute or chronic, that will be treated with surgery, radiation, or some other type of generally time-limited intervention; reporting clinician service examples include but are not limited to, the orthopedic surgeon performing a knee replacement and seeing the patient through the postoperative period
XP Separate practitioner, a service that is distinct because it was performed by a different practitioner
XS Separate structure, a service that is distinct because it was performed on a separate organ/structure
XU Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
Date
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Notes
2008-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2008.
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