44188 Laparoscopic colostomy
Also known as: lap colostomy, laparoscopic stoma creation, lap fecal diversion, colostomy creation
Laparoscopic creation of colostomy (colonic stoma) for fecal diversion.
In Plain Language
laparoscopic colon opening creation; minimally invasive bowel opening
Clinical Context
Laparoscopic creation of colonic stoma for fecal diversion in patients with colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or bowel dysfunction.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.87 |
| Total RVU | 18.87 |
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 18.87, this code ranks in the 80th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44188?
CPT 44188 (Laparoscopic colostomy) is a Surgery code. Laparoscopic creation of colostomy (colonic stoma) for fecal diversion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44188?
The work RVU for CPT 44188 is 18.87. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44188 used?
Laparoscopic creation of colonic stoma for fecal diversion in patients with colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or bowel dysfunction.
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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.