49323 Laparoscopic drainage lymphocele
Also known as: laparoscopic lymphocele drainage, lap lymphocele drain, minimally invasive lymph drainage
Laparoscopic drainage of lymphocele (fluid collection from lymphatic system) with catheter placement.
In Plain Language
camera-guided drainage of lymph fluid; minimally invasive treatment of lymph collection
Clinical Context
Laparoscopic drainage of lymphoceles commonly occurring after lymph node dissection or renal transplantation. Provides therapeutic decompression and allows healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.97 |
| Total RVU | 9.97 |
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 9.97, this code ranks in the 59th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49323?
CPT 49323 (Laparoscopic drainage lymphocele) is a Surgery code. Laparoscopic drainage of lymphocele (fluid collection from lymphatic system) with catheter placement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49323?
The work RVU for CPT 49323 is 9.97. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Urology, Transplant Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 49323 used?
Laparoscopic drainage of lymphoceles commonly occurring after lymph node dissection or renal transplantation. Provides therapeutic decompression and allows healing.
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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.