44401 Colonoscopy with ablation
Also known as: colonoscopy stoma ablation, transcolostomy ablation therapy
Colonoscopy performed through colostomy stoma with ablation therapy for thermal destruction or coagulation of vascular malformations or bleeding lesions.
In Plain Language
camera heat treatment of abnormal blood vessels through colostomy; ablation therapy via stoma
Clinical Context
Used for treatment of angiodysplasia or vascular malformations in colon/rectum of patients with colostomy. Allows hemostasis without polypectomy or resection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.23 |
| Total RVU | 4.23 |
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 4.23, this code ranks in the 29th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44401?
CPT 44401 (Colonoscopy with ablation) is a Surgery code. Colonoscopy performed through colostomy stoma with ablation therapy for thermal destruction or coagulation of vascular malformations or bleeding lesions.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44401?
The work RVU for CPT 44401 is 4.23. This code is primarily used by Gastroenterology, Colorectal Surgery.
When is CPT 44401 used?
Used for treatment of angiodysplasia or vascular malformations in colon/rectum of patients with colostomy. Allows hemostasis without polypectomy or resection.
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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.