47555 Biliary endoscopy thru skin
Also known as: Percutaneous cholangioscopic stricture dilation, POCS dilation
Percutaneous endoscopy of the biliary tree with stricture dilation using balloon or other technique to open narrowed segments of the bile ducts.
In Plain Language
Stretching narrowed bile ducts using scope through skin
Clinical Context
Performed for benign and malignant biliary strictures under direct visualization. Allows accurate identification and treatment of stenosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.36 |
| Total RVU | 7.36 |
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 7.36, this code ranks in the 47th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47555?
CPT 47555 (Biliary endoscopy thru skin) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous endoscopy of the biliary tree with stricture dilation using balloon or other technique to open narrowed segments of the bile ducts.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47555?
The work RVU for CPT 47555 is 7.36. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, Hepatobiliary Surgery.
When is CPT 47555 used?
Performed for benign and malignant biliary strictures under direct visualization. Allows accurate identification and treatment of stenosis.
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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.