48510 Drainage pancreatic pseudocyst
Also known as: Pancreatic pseudocyst drainage, cystojejunostomy
Surgical drainage of a pancreatic pseudocyst by creating an internal fistula between the cyst and small intestine (cyst-enterostomy) for long-term decompression.
In Plain Language
Creating permanent connection between pancreatic cyst and intestine
Clinical Context
Performed for symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts causing pain or obstruction. Provides long-term internal drainage.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.76 |
| Total RVU | 16.76 |
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 16.76, 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 48510?
CPT 48510 (Drainage pancreatic pseudocyst) is a Surgery code. Surgical drainage of a pancreatic pseudocyst by creating an internal fistula between the cyst and small intestine (cyst-enterostomy) for long-term decompression.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 48510?
The work RVU for CPT 48510 is 16.76. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Hepatobiliary Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 48510 used?
Performed for symptomatic pancreatic pseudocysts causing pain or obstruction. Provides long-term 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.