How To Use CPT Code 56420

CPT 56420 describes the procedure of incision and drainage of Bartholin’s gland abscess in the female genital area. 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 56420?

CPT 56420 is used to describe the incision and drainage of an abscess in Bartholin’s gland, which is located in the female genital area. This procedure is performed to relieve pain and treat infection by draining the pus from the abscess.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 56420 is: ‘Incision and drainage of Bartholin’s gland abscess.’

3. Procedure

1. During the procedure, the healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. The provider then locates the exact site of the abscess in one of the Bartholin’s glands.
3. An incision is made over the abscess using a scalpel, allowing for the drainage of pus.
4. The area is irrigated to clean it, and the provider checks for any bleeding.
5. To facilitate ongoing drainage, the wound is packed with gauze.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 56420 is performed when there is an abscess in Bartholin’s gland, which is one of the pair of glands located on either side of the vagina. The procedure is done to treat infection and relieve pain caused by the abscess.

5. When to use CPT code 56420

CPT code 56420 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the incision and drainage of a Bartholin’s gland abscess. It is important to note that this code is specific to the incision and drainage of Bartholin’s gland abscess and should not be used for other abscesses in the vulva or perineum.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 56420, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The diagnosis of Bartholin’s gland abscess
• The specific procedure performed, including the incision and drainage
• The date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• The provider’s signature

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 56420, ensure that the procedure performed is specifically the incision and drainage of Bartholin’s gland abscess. It is important to use the appropriate code for abscesses in other areas, such as CPT code 56405 for vulva or perineal abscesses. Additionally, follow any specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the use of modifiers or reporting with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 56420 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A healthcare provider performs the incision and drainage of a Bartholin’s gland abscess in a patient experiencing pain and infection.
2. During the procedure, the provider locates the abscess, makes an incision, and drains the pus to relieve the patient’s symptoms.
3. Another patient presents with a Bartholin’s gland abscess, and the provider performs the incision and drainage procedure to treat the infection and alleviate pain.
4. In a different case, a healthcare provider performs the incision and drainage of a recurrent Bartholin’s gland abscess in a patient who has previously undergone the same procedure.
5. A patient with a Bartholin’s gland abscess undergoes the incision and drainage procedure to address the infection and relieve discomfort.
6. During the procedure, the healthcare provider ensures proper anesthesia and performs the incision and drainage of the Bartholin’s gland abscess.
7. Another patient with a Bartholin’s gland abscess undergoes the incision and drainage procedure to promote healing and alleviate symptoms.
8. A healthcare provider performs the incision and drainage of a large Bartholin’s gland abscess, providing relief to the patient.
9. In a complex case, the provider performs the incision and drainage of a Bartholin’s gland abscess that requires additional steps to ensure proper drainage and healing.
10. A patient with a Bartholin’s gland abscess undergoes the incision and drainage procedure, resulting in the resolution of symptoms and improved well-being.