47600 Cholecystectomy
Also known as: Open cholecystectomy, standard cholecystectomy
Open surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) performed through a standard abdominal incision for symptomatic cholelithiasis or chronic cholecystitis.
In Plain Language
Removing the gallbladder through standard surgical incision
Clinical Context
Performed when laparoscopic approach is contraindicated, conversion from laparoscopy is necessary, or anatomy is hostile. Gold standard for complex cases.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.04 |
| Total RVU | 17.04 |
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 17.04, this code ranks in the 77th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47600?
CPT 47600 (Cholecystectomy) is a Surgery code. Open surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) performed through a standard abdominal incision for symptomatic cholelithiasis or chronic cholecystitis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47600?
The work RVU for CPT 47600 is 17.04. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 47600 used?
Performed when laparoscopic approach is contraindicated, conversion from laparoscopy is necessary, or anatomy is hostile. Gold standard for complex cases.
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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.