44900 incision and drainage appendix abscess open
Also known as: open appendiceal abscess drainage, I&D appendix abscess
Incision and drainage of appendiceal abscess via open surgical approach for treatment of acute appendicitis with abscess formation.
In Plain Language
surgery to drain infection from appendix abscess
Clinical Context
Used for acute appendicitis with abscess formation when appendectomy is not performed acutely. Often followed by interval appendectomy after resolution.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 12.26 |
| Total RVU | 12.26 |
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 12.26, this code ranks in the 66th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 44900?
CPT 44900 (incision and drainage appendix abscess open) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of appendiceal abscess via open surgical approach for treatment of acute appendicitis with abscess formation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 44900?
The work RVU for CPT 44900 is 12.26. This code is primarily used by General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 44900 used?
Used for acute appendicitis with abscess formation when appendectomy is not performed acutely. Often followed by interval appendectomy after resolution.
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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.