CPT Code 53270 | Description & Clinical Information
CPT 53270 describes the surgical removal or destruction of the Skene’s glands, which are located near the urethra and are responsible for producing fluid that lubricates the urethral opening during sexual arousal.
Official Description
The CPT book defines CPT code 53270 as: “Excision or fulguration; Skene’s glands”.
Clinical Information
The procedure describes by CPT code 53270 is a surgical technique used to remove cysts or abscesses found in the posterolateral wall of the vagina. The process begins with the administration of local anesthesia, followed by sterilization of the vulva.
Using an urethroscope, the physician explores the cysts and looks for a direct connection to the urethra. If a connection is identified, the physician proceeds to make a sharp incision over the abscess or cyst. Proper access to the cyst is crucial, and as such, the cystic structure is dissected together with the surrounding tissue.
During the surgery, a Foley catheter or a guidewire may be placed in the urethra to locate the cyst. Careful attention is paid to the dissection along the borders of the cystic structure to avoid damaging vital tissues. Once the cyst is located and dissected, the defect is then closed, either in a simple or layered fashion.
Hemostasis is then obtained to eliminate bleeding, and the surgery is completed. The entire procedure typically lasts between 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the cyst and the extent of the surrounding tissue dissection required.
It is essential to note that recovery time after the surgery varies widely among individuals. Some patients can resume normal activities within a few days, while others require a few weeks to recover fully. It is advisable to avoid sexual intercourse or any strenuous activity that may cause strain in the pelvic area for approximately six weeks after surgery.
In conclusion, the CPT code 53270 procedure is a surgical technique designed to remove cysts or abscesses found in the posterolateral wall of the vagina. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and a Foley catheter or guidewire is used to locate the cyst. During the surgery, dissection of surrounding tissue is done carefully to avoid damaging adjacent structures, and once the cyst is removed, the defect is closed. Recovery times vary among individuals, with some people resuming normal activities within a few days and others taking a few weeks to recover fully.
Return to all the CPT codes for excision procedures on the urethra.
