47535 Conversion external bil drainage catheter
Also known as: Catheter conversion, internal-external conversion
Conversion of an external percutaneous biliary drainage catheter to an internal/external system that allows internal drainage into the duodenum while maintaining external access.
In Plain Language
Converting external drain to allow internal drainage
Clinical Context
Performed after initial external drainage has controlled infection/sepsis, allowing patient comfort and potential stent placement for internal drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.85 |
| Total RVU | 3.85 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 3.85, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47535?
CPT 47535 (Conversion external bil drainage catheter) is a Surgery code. Conversion of an external percutaneous biliary drainage catheter to an internal/external system that allows internal drainage into the duodenum while maintaining external access.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47535?
The work RVU for CPT 47535 is 3.85. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Hepatobiliary Surgery.
When is CPT 47535 used?
Performed after initial external drainage has controlled infection/sepsis, allowing patient comfort and potential stent placement for internal drainage.
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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.