51040 Incise & drainage bladder
Also known as: bladder incision and drainage, cystotomy for abscess
Incision and drainage of bladder abscess, surgical opening and drainage of infected fluid collection within bladder wall.
In Plain Language
opening bladder to drain infection
Clinical Context
Indicated for bladder wall abscess from infection, trauma, or inflammatory process. Open surgical drainage when percutaneous approach not feasible.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.38 |
| Total RVU | 4.38 |
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 4.38, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 51040?
CPT 51040 (Incise & drainage bladder) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of bladder abscess, surgical opening and drainage of infected fluid collection within bladder wall.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 51040?
The work RVU for CPT 51040 is 4.38. This code is primarily used by Urology, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 51040 used?
Indicated for bladder wall abscess from infection, trauma, or inflammatory process. Open surgical drainage when percutaneous approach not feasible.
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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.