46050 incision and drainage perianal abscess superficial
Also known as: perianal I&D, superficial perianal drainage, perirectal abscess drainage
Incision and drainage of a superficial perianal abscess. This abscess is located around the anus but does not involve the sphincter muscles, making it shallower and less complex than deeper abscesses.
In Plain Language
draining a small abscess around the anus; simple abscess drainage outside the sphincter
Clinical Context
Indicated for superficial perianal abscesses presenting with localized swelling, pain, and fever. Often can be performed in office setting with local anesthesia or minimal sedation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.21 |
| Total RVU | 1.21 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.21, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 46050?
CPT 46050 (incision and drainage perianal abscess superficial) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of a superficial perianal abscess. This abscess is located around the anus but does not involve the sphincter muscles, making it shallower and less complex than deeper abscesses.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 46050?
The work RVU for CPT 46050 is 1.21. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 46050 used?
Indicated for superficial perianal abscesses presenting with localized swelling, pain, and fever. Often can be performed in office setting with local anesthesia or minimal sedation.
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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.