2025 CPT code 47552
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgery - Endoscopy Procedures on the Biliary Tract Surgery Feed
Percutaneous biliary endoscopy via T-tube or other tract; diagnostic, with specimen collection by brushing and/or washing.
Modifiers may be appended to 47552 depending on the circumstances of the procedure, such as the use of anesthesia, multiple procedures, or different services.
Medical necessity for 47552 is established when the procedure is deemed appropriate and necessary for diagnostic evaluation of biliary tract pathology. The decision should be based on clinical findings and other diagnostic studies that indicate the need for further evaluation of the biliary system.
The physician is responsible for performing the percutaneous biliary endoscopy, inserting and manipulating the endoscope, collecting specimens (if needed), and ensuring the overall safety and success of the procedure.They may involve other qualified medical professionals in aspects of the procedure (e.g., anesthesia).
In simple words: The doctor uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) to look inside the bile ducts.If needed, they'll collect samples to help with the diagnosis. This is a separate procedure from any other treatment that may be done.
This CPT code describes a percutaneous biliary endoscopy performed through a T-tube or other tract.The procedure involves a diagnostic examination of the biliary tract using an endoscope.The collection of specimens via brushing and/or washing is included. This is a separate procedure and should be reported in addition to any other procedures performed.
Example 1: A patient presents with jaundice and elevated liver enzymes.A percutaneous biliary endoscopy (47552) is performed via a T-tube to diagnose the cause of biliary obstruction, and brushings are collected for cytology., A patient with a history of choledocholithiasis undergoes percutaneous biliary endoscopy (47552) through a previously placed drain.The endoscopy is diagnostic, with specimen collection by brushing, revealing inflammation and no stones., Following a cholecystectomy, a patient experiences persistent abdominal pain.A percutaneous transhepatic biliary endoscopy (47552) is performed for diagnostic purposes, and washings are collected for analysis to investigate potential retained stones or strictures.
* Pre-procedure patient history and physical examination.* Indication for the procedure (e.g., jaundice, elevated liver function tests).* Consent form signed by the patient.* Anesthesia record (if applicable).* Detailed operative report describing the technique, findings (e.g., stones, strictures, inflammation), and any specimens collected.* Pathology report (if specimens were sent for analysis).* Post-procedure recovery notes.
** Always refer to the most current CPT manual and payer-specific guidelines for accurate coding and reimbursement.The information provided here is for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice.
- Revenue Code: Refer to payer-specific revenue codes.
- RVU: The relative value units (RVUs) for this code will vary based on the geographical location, payer, and other factors.Consult your local fee schedule for the most accurate information.Examples from various sources show a range of RVUs.
- Global Days: This is not a global procedure; therefore, there are no global days.This procedure is reported as a separate procedure.
- Payment Status: Active
- Modifier TC rule: A technical component (TC) modifier is not typically applied to this code as it is a complete, self-contained procedure.
- Fee Schedule: Historical fee schedules are not available here. Consult your local fee schedule database for historical data.
- Specialties:Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Surgical Oncology, Interventional Radiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center