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Official Description

Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystoenterostomy

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A laparoscopic cholecystoenterostomy, also known as a laparoscopic biliary bypass procedure, is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to create a connection between the gallbladder and the small intestine. This procedure is typically indicated for patients who have conditions that obstruct the normal flow of bile, such as gallstones or tumors. The surgery is performed through small incisions in the abdomen, which reduces recovery time and minimizes postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery. During the procedure, a trocar is inserted through a small incision at the navel, allowing for the introduction of a laparoscope—a thin tube equipped with a camera that provides visualization of the internal organs. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide to create a working space for the surgeon. Additional incisions are made to insert surgical instruments necessary for the operation. The gallbladder is carefully visualized, and a loop of small bowel, typically from the jejunum, is brought into proximity with the gallbladder. Using a laparoscopic intracorporeal linear stapling device, the gallbladder and small bowel are anastomosed, or surgically connected, to facilitate the passage of bile directly into the intestine. After the anastomosis is completed, the stapler insertion sites are sutured closed, and the surgical instruments are removed before closing the portal incisions. This procedure is designed to restore bile flow and alleviate symptoms associated with biliary obstruction.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The laparoscopic cholecystoenterostomy is indicated for specific conditions that necessitate the creation of a bypass for bile flow. These indications include:

  • Obstructive Cholestasis - A condition where bile flow is blocked, often due to gallstones or tumors.
  • Cholecystitis - Inflammation of the gallbladder that may require surgical intervention.
  • Pancreatitis - Inflammation of the pancreas that can be exacerbated by gallbladder disease.
  • Gallbladder Dysfunction - Situations where the gallbladder is not functioning properly, leading to symptoms that require surgical correction.

2. Procedure

The laparoscopic cholecystoenterostomy procedure involves several key steps that are performed with precision to ensure successful outcomes. The steps include:

  • Step 1: Incision and Trocar Insertion - A small portal incision is made at the navel, and a trocar is inserted to allow access to the abdominal cavity. This initial step is crucial for introducing the laparoscope and other surgical instruments.
  • Step 2: Abdominal Inflation - Carbon dioxide is introduced into the abdomen to inflate the cavity, creating a working space for the surgeon. This inflation is essential for visualizing the internal organs and performing the procedure safely.
  • Step 3: Additional Incisions - Two to three additional abdominal portal incisions are made, and trocars are inserted through these incisions. These additional access points are necessary for the placement of surgical instruments required for the anastomosis.
  • Step 4: Visualization of the Gallbladder - The gallbladder is visualized using the laparoscope, allowing the surgeon to assess its condition and prepare for the anastomosis.
  • Step 5: Anastomosis Creation - A laparoscopic intracorporeal linear stapling device is inserted to facilitate the anastomosis between the gallbladder and a loop of small bowel, typically from the jejunum. This step is critical for establishing a new pathway for bile flow.
  • Step 6: Closure of Stapler Insertion Sites - After the anastomosis is completed, the sites where the stapler was inserted are sutured closed to ensure proper healing and prevent leakage.
  • Step 7: Removal of Instruments and Closure - Finally, the laparoscopic and surgical instruments are removed, and the portal incisions are closed securely to complete the procedure.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for patients who have undergone a laparoscopic cholecystoenterostomy typically involves monitoring for any complications, managing pain, and ensuring proper recovery. Patients may be advised to follow a specific diet as they recover, gradually reintroducing solid foods as tolerated. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess healing and the effectiveness of the anastomosis. Patients should be informed about signs of potential complications, such as infection or bile leakage, and instructed to seek medical attention if these occur. Overall, the minimally invasive nature of this procedure generally allows for a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery, with many patients able to return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Short Descr LAPARO CHOLECYSTOENTEROSTOMY
Medium Descr LAPAROSCOPY SURG CHOLECYSTOENETEROSTOMY
Long Descr Laparoscopy, surgical; cholecystoenterostomy
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required...
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P5E - Ambulatory procedures - other
MUE 1
CCS Clinical Classification 99 - Other OR gastrointestinal therapeutic procedures

This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.

49327 Addon Code MPFS Status: Active Code APC N ASC N1 Laparoscopy, surgical; with placement of interstitial device(s) for radiation therapy guidance (eg, fiducial markers, dosimeter), intra-abdominal, intrapelvic, and/or retroperitoneum, including imaging guidance, if performed, single or multiple (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
51 Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d).
GC This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician
XU Unusual non-overlapping service, the use of a service that is distinct because it does not overlap usual components of the main service
Date
Action
Notes
2000-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 2000.
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