49429 Removal of shunt
Also known as: shunt removal, shunt explantation, catheter removal
Complete removal of peritoneovenous shunt or abdominal-to-systemic venous catheter.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of drainage shunt; extraction of abdominal shunt
Clinical Context
Surgical removal of peritoneovenous shunt. Indications include infection, shunt thrombosis, malignancy, or patient transition off shunt therapy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.25 |
| Total RVU | 7.25 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 7.25, this code ranks in the 47th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.1x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49429?
CPT 49429 (Removal of shunt) is a Surgery code. Complete removal of peritoneovenous shunt or abdominal-to-systemic venous catheter.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49429?
The work RVU for CPT 49429 is 7.25. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Vascular Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 49429 used?
Surgical removal of peritoneovenous shunt. Indications include infection, shunt thrombosis, malignancy, or patient transition off shunt therapy.
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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.