49083 Abdominal paracentesis with imaging
Also known as: Image-guided paracentesis, ultrasound-guided tap
Percutaneous needle puncture of the abdominal cavity with imaging guidance (ultrasound or computed tomography) for accurate fluid aspiration.
In Plain Language
Using ultrasound to guide needle into abdomen for fluid
Clinical Context
Performed for ascites or abdominal fluid with imaging guidance to ensure accurate needle placement and improve success rate.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.95 |
| Total RVU | 1.95 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.95, this code ranks in the 13th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49083?
CPT 49083 (Abdominal paracentesis with imaging) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous needle puncture of the abdominal cavity with imaging guidance (ultrasound or computed tomography) for accurate fluid aspiration.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49083?
The work RVU for CPT 49083 is 1.95. This code is primarily used by Interventional Radiology, General Surgery.
When is CPT 49083 used?
Performed for ascites or abdominal fluid with imaging guidance to ensure accurate needle placement and improve success rate.
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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.