44385 Endoscopy of bowel pouch
Also known as: pouch endoscopy, J-pouch endoscopy, ileal pouch endoscopy
Endoscopy of ileal pouch (created during total proctocolectomy) performed for diagnostic visualization and assessment of pouch mucosa and anastomotic sites.
In Plain Language
camera examination of internal bowel pouch; inspection of surgically created bowel reservoir
Clinical Context
Used post-total proctocolectomy in patients with ileal pouch to evaluate for complications including pouchitis, strictures, or anastomotic bleeding.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.17 |
| Total RVU | 1.17 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.17, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44385?
CPT 44385 (Endoscopy of bowel pouch) is a Surgery code. Endoscopy of ileal pouch (created during total proctocolectomy) performed for diagnostic visualization and assessment of pouch mucosa and anastomotic sites.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44385?
The work RVU for CPT 44385 is 1.17. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, Gastroenterology.
When is CPT 44385 used?
Used post-total proctocolectomy in patients with ileal pouch to evaluate for complications including pouchitis, strictures, or anastomotic bleeding.
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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.