44602 Suture small intestine
Also known as: small bowel repair, small bowel suture, primary repair small intestine
Primary repair of small intestine via open surgical approach, including suturing of laceration or perforation to restore bowel continuity and integrity.
In Plain Language
surgical stitching of small intestine tear; repair of small bowel hole
Clinical Context
Used for traumatic injury to small bowel (perforation, laceration) or iatrogenic injury during surgery. Preserves bowel length and avoids resection when primary repair is feasible.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 24.10 |
| Total RVU | 24.10 |
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 24.10, this code ranks in the 88th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44602?
CPT 44602 (Suture small intestine) is a Surgery code. Primary repair of small intestine via open surgical approach, including suturing of laceration or perforation to restore bowel continuity and integrity.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44602?
The work RVU for CPT 44602 is 24.10. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44602 used?
Used for traumatic injury to small bowel (perforation, laceration) or iatrogenic injury during surgery. Preserves bowel length and avoids resection when primary repair is feasible.
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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.