How To Use CPT Code 47610

CPT 47610 describes the surgical procedure known as cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct. This article will cover the official description, procedure details, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 47610?

CPT 47610 is used to describe a surgical procedure called cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct. This procedure involves the removal of the gallbladder, a small organ responsible for storing bile, and the exploration of the common bile duct to check for stones and ensure the free passage of bile.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 47610 is: ‘Cholecystectomy with exploration of common duct.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider makes an incision in the right upper abdomen and accesses the gallbladder.
2. The provider dissects the structures surrounding the gallbladder and clips the cystic artery and duct.
3. Exploration of the common bile duct is performed to ensure there are no obstructions.
4. The gallbladder is then dissected from the liver bed.
5. The site is irrigated and a drain may be inserted for fluid drainage.
6. The provider checks for bleeding, removes any instruments, and closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 47610 is performed on patients with gallbladder disease who require the removal of the gallbladder and exploration of the common duct. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary expertise in performing cholecystectomies and exploring the common duct.

5. When to use CPT code 47610

CPT code 47610 should be used when a cholecystectomy is performed along with the exploration of the common duct. It is important to note that if the procedure is performed using a laparoscopic approach, CPT code 47564 should be used instead.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 47610, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct
• Details of the procedure, including the incision site, dissection of structures, clipping of the cystic artery and duct, exploration of the common bile duct, and removal of the gallbladder
• Any additional procedures performed during the surgery
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Post-operative care instructions
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 47610, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this specific code. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and use the appropriate modifiers if necessary. Additionally, be aware of any bundling or unbundling rules that may apply to this procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT code 47610 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. The code has undergone changes, including a code change on January 1, 2010. It is important to stay updated with any changes or revisions to ensure accurate coding and billing.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct to treat gallbladder disease.
2. A healthcare provider performs a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct and discovers a stone obstructing the common bile duct.
3. During a surgical procedure, the gallbladder is removed, and the common bile duct is explored to ensure there are no obstructions.
4. A patient with gallbladder disease undergoes a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct, and no abnormalities are found in the common bile duct.
5. A healthcare provider performs a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct and identifies a tumor in the common bile duct that requires further treatment.
6. During a surgical procedure, the gallbladder is removed, and the common bile duct is explored to check for any abnormalities.
7. A patient undergoes a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct, and a stone is found and removed from the common bile duct.
8. A healthcare provider performs a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct and discovers a stricture in the common bile duct that requires intervention.
9. During a surgical procedure, the gallbladder is removed, and the common bile duct is explored to ensure there are no complications.
10. A patient with gallbladder disease undergoes a cholecystectomy with exploration of the common duct, and no abnormalities are found in the common bile duct.