47620 Removal of gallbladder
Also known as: Open chole with CBD reconstruction, open CBD repair
Open cholecystectomy with common bile duct exploration via choledochotomy, stone extraction, and primary closure or reconstruction of the bile duct.
In Plain Language
Removing gallbladder and surgically repairing bile ducts
Clinical Context
Performed for complex bile duct injuries, strictures, or large stone disease requiring reconstruction. Most technically demanding cholecystectomy variant.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.49 |
| Total RVU | 22.49 |
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 22.49, this code ranks in the 86th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 47620?
CPT 47620 (Removal of gallbladder) is a Surgery code. Open cholecystectomy with common bile duct exploration via choledochotomy, stone extraction, and primary closure or reconstruction of the bile duct.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 47620?
The work RVU for CPT 47620 is 22.49. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 47620 used?
Performed for complex bile duct injuries, strictures, or large stone disease requiring reconstruction. Most technically demanding cholecystectomy variant.
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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.