55040 Removal of hydrocele
Also known as: hydrocele excision, hydrocele repair
Surgical removal of hydrocele (fluid and sac) through open approach with scrotal or inguinal incision.
In Plain Language
fluid sac removal around testicle
Clinical Context
Definitive surgical treatment of symptomatic hydrocele with opening or removal of tunica vaginalis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.31 |
| Total RVU | 5.31 |
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 5.31, this code ranks in the 36th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 55040?
CPT 55040 (Removal of hydrocele) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of hydrocele (fluid and sac) through open approach with scrotal or inguinal incision.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 55040?
The work RVU for CPT 55040 is 5.31. This code is primarily used by Urology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 55040 used?
Definitive surgical treatment of symptomatic hydrocele with opening or removal of tunica vaginalis.
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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.