47605 Cholecystectomy with cholang
Also known as: Open chole with CBD exploration, open choledochotomy
Open cholecystectomy with simultaneous cholangiography or exploration of the common bile duct to identify and manage bile duct stones or obstruction.
In Plain Language
Removing gallbladder and checking bile ducts through large incision
Clinical Context
Performed when choledocholithiasis or bile duct pathology is present. Allows combined management of gallbladder and bile duct disease.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.02 |
| Total RVU | 18.02 |
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 18.02, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47605?
CPT 47605 (Cholecystectomy with cholang) is a Surgery code. Open cholecystectomy with simultaneous cholangiography or exploration of the common bile duct to identify and manage bile duct stones or obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47605?
The work RVU for CPT 47605 is 18.02. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 47605 used?
Performed when choledocholithiasis or bile duct pathology is present. Allows combined management of gallbladder and bile duct disease.
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.