46270 Remove anal fist subcutaneous
Also known as: subcutaneous fistula excision, low anal fistula removal, fistulotomy
Surgical removal of a subcutaneous anal fistula. This is a fistula tract located in the subcutaneous tissue superficial to the sphincter complex.
In Plain Language
removing a tunnel between the anal canal and skin; surgery to close an anal tunnel
Clinical Context
Used for simple subcutaneous anal fistulas (low fistulas) with primary tract only. Has low recurrence and continence preservation rates.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.80 |
| Total RVU | 4.80 |
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 4.80, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 46270?
CPT 46270 (Remove anal fist subcutaneous) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of a subcutaneous anal fistula. This is a fistula tract located in the subcutaneous tissue superficial to the sphincter complex.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 46270?
The work RVU for CPT 46270 is 4.80. This code is primarily used by Colorectal Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 46270 used?
Used for simple subcutaneous anal fistulas (low fistulas) with primary tract only. Has low recurrence and continence preservation rates.
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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.