47400 Incision of liver duct
Also known as: Hepatic ductotomy, choledocholithotomy
Surgical incision into the hepatic duct (the main bile duct within the liver) to explore, remove stones, or relieve obstruction.
In Plain Language
Opening the liver's main bile duct
Clinical Context
Performed for hepatic duct stones, obstruction, or strictures. Often performed via open surgery when endoscopic approaches fail or are contraindicated.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 35.45 |
| Total RVU | 35.45 |
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 35.45, this code ranks in the 95th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47400?
CPT 47400 (Incision of liver duct) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision into the hepatic duct (the main bile duct within the liver) to explore, remove stones, or relieve obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47400?
The work RVU for CPT 47400 is 35.45. This code is primarily used by Hepatobiliary Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 47400 used?
Performed for hepatic duct stones, obstruction, or strictures. Often performed via open surgery when endoscopic approaches fail or are contraindicated.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.