47610 Removal of gallbladder
Also known as: Open chole with choledochoduodenostomy, biliary-enteric anastomosis
Open removal of the gallbladder with exploration and management of the bile ducts including stone removal or choledochoduodenostomy for ductal obstruction.
In Plain Language
Removing gallbladder and connecting bile duct to intestine
Clinical Context
Performed for choledochal cysts, bile duct strictures, or choledocholithiasis with duct dilation. Creates permanent internal drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.40 |
| Total RVU | 20.40 |
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 20.40, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47610?
CPT 47610 (Removal of gallbladder) is a Surgery code. Open removal of the gallbladder with exploration and management of the bile ducts including stone removal or choledochoduodenostomy for ductal obstruction.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47610?
The work RVU for CPT 47610 is 20.40. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 47610 used?
Performed for choledochal cysts, bile duct strictures, or choledocholithiasis with duct dilation. Creates permanent 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.