44640 Repair bowel-skin fistula
Also known as: enterocutaneous fistula repair, bowel-skin fistula repair
Repair of bowel-to-skin fistula (enterocutaneous fistula) via open surgical approach, typically involving resection of fistula tract and primary anastomosis.
In Plain Language
surgery to close abnormal opening between bowel and skin; fistula closure
Clinical Context
Used for enterocutaneous fistula, usually from inflammatory bowel disease, prior surgery, or trauma. Often requires bowel resection and anastomosis for definitive repair.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 23.60 |
| Total RVU | 23.60 |
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 23.60, this code ranks in the 87th 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 44640?
CPT 44640 (Repair bowel-skin fistula) is a Surgery code. Repair of bowel-to-skin fistula (enterocutaneous fistula) via open surgical approach, typically involving resection of fistula tract and primary anastomosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44640?
The work RVU for CPT 44640 is 23.60. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Colorectal Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44640 used?
Used for enterocutaneous fistula, usually from inflammatory bowel disease, prior surgery, or trauma. Often requires bowel resection and anastomosis for definitive repair.
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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.