49185 Sclerotx fluid collection
Also known as: sclerotx fluid collection, sclerotherapy, fluid collection sclerosing
Sclerotherapy or injection treatment of intra-abdominal fluid collection to promote fibrosis and prevent recurrence.
In Plain Language
chemical treatment to seal fluid pocket; injection to harden fluid collection
Clinical Context
Therapeutic procedure for persistent or recurrent intra-abdominal fluid collections (seroma, abscess, lymphocele). Used to obliterate cavity space and prevent complications.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.29 |
| Total RVU | 2.29 |
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 2.29, this code ranks in the 16th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49185?
CPT 49185 (Sclerotx fluid collection) is a Surgery code. Sclerotherapy or injection treatment of intra-abdominal fluid collection to promote fibrosis and prevent recurrence.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49185?
The work RVU for CPT 49185 is 2.29. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Interventional Radiology.
When is CPT 49185 used?
Therapeutic procedure for persistent or recurrent intra-abdominal fluid collections (seroma, abscess, lymphocele). Used to obliterate cavity space and prevent complications.
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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.