2025 CPT code 47537
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Digestive System Surgery Feed
Percutaneous removal of a biliary drainage catheter, guided by fluoroscopy, including cholangiography if performed.
Modifiers may be applied as appropriate, such as modifier 59 for a distinct procedural service if additional procedures are performed. Consult current modifier guidelines.
Medical necessity is established when the biliary drainage catheter is no longer needed and removal is indicated to prevent complications like infection or discomfort. Removal may be necessary for various reasons, including resolution of the underlying condition requiring drainage, malfunction of the catheter, or patient intolerance.
The physician's responsibility involves injecting contrast material (if cholangiography is performed), using fluoroscopy to guide the removal of the biliary drainage catheter, and interpreting the images. The physician must ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively, minimizing risk to the patient.
In simple words: The doctor removes a tube used to drain bile from the liver and gallbladder.This is done using X-ray imaging to guide the removal.If needed, a dye is injected to take pictures of the bile ducts.
Percutaneous removal of a biliary drainage catheter, guided by fluoroscopy (e.g., with concurrent indwelling biliary stents), including diagnostic cholangiography when performed, imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy), and all associated radiological supervision and interpretation.This procedure does not include the initial placement of the catheter.
Example 1: A patient with a history of choledocholithiasis (gallstones in the bile duct) has an external biliary drainage catheter in place. The catheter is no longer needed, and the physician performs a percutaneous removal using fluoroscopic guidance. Cholangiography is also performed., A patient with pancreatic cancer has an external biliary drainage catheter placed to relieve biliary obstruction.The catheter needs to be removed due to infection and the physician performs a percutaneous removal with fluoroscopy guidance.No cholangiography is necessary., A patient with a history of biliary surgery has a biliary stent and an external biliary drainage catheter. The drainage catheter is removed percutaneously using fluoroscopy. The stent remains in place.
* Complete medical history, including reason for catheter placement.* Pre-procedure imaging (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan).* Intra-procedural fluoroscopic images documenting the catheter removal.* Cholangiogram images (if performed).* Post-procedure imaging, if clinically indicated.* Operative report detailing procedure and findings.* Any complications encountered.
** Always confirm the correct coding with payer specific guidelines and current CPT guidelines.This information is for guidance only and does not constitute medical advice.
- Revenue Code: P1G (MAJOR PROCEDURE - OTHER)
- RVU: Data not available in source. Refer to CMS fee schedule for current RVU values.
- Global Days: Data not available in source.The global period will vary depending on payer and specific circumstances.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
- Fee Schedule: Data not available in source. Consult historical fee schedules based on the date of service.
- Specialties:Interventional Radiology, Gastroenterology, Surgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center