44005 Freeing of bowel adhesion
Also known as: adhesiolysis, lysis of adhesions, enterolysis
Freeing of adhesions between bowel loops via open approach without resection of affected intestine.
In Plain Language
scar tissue removal; bowel freeing surgery
Clinical Context
Release of fibrous adhesions connecting bowel loops, typically from prior abdominal surgery or inflammation. May be performed to relieve bowel obstruction or pain.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.00 |
| Total RVU | 18.00 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 18.00, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44005?
CPT 44005 (Freeing of bowel adhesion) is a Surgery code. Freeing of adhesions between bowel loops via open approach without resection of affected intestine.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44005?
The work RVU for CPT 44005 is 18.00. This code is primarily used by General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44005 used?
Release of fibrous adhesions connecting bowel loops, typically from prior abdominal surgery or inflammation. May be performed to relieve bowel obstruction or pain.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.