44160 Removal of colon
Also known as: subtotal colectomy, abdominal colectomy, near-total colectomy
Open removal of colon (total or near-total colectomy) without proctectomy, preserving rectum.
In Plain Language
colon removal preserving rectum; partial total colon surgery
Clinical Context
Removal of entire colon via open approach with preservation of rectum. May be used in Crohn disease to preserve sphincter function or as staging procedure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.37 |
| Total RVU | 20.37 |
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 20.37, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44160?
CPT 44160 (Removal of colon) is a Surgery code. Open removal of colon (total or near-total colectomy) without proctectomy, preserving rectum.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44160?
The work RVU for CPT 44160 is 20.37. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44160 used?
Removal of entire colon via open approach with preservation of rectum. May be used in Crohn disease to preserve sphincter function or as staging procedure.
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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.