55550 Laparoscopic ligate spermatic vein
Also known as: laparoscopic varicocele ligation, lap varicocele repair
Laparoscopic ligation of spermatic vein for high varicocele or internal varicocele repair.
In Plain Language
minimally invasive vein ligation
Clinical Context
Minimally invasive laparoscopic repair of high varicocele or internal varicocele by vein ligation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.02 |
| Total RVU | 7.02 |
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 7.02, this code ranks in the 45th 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 55550?
CPT 55550 (Laparoscopic ligate spermatic vein) is a Surgery code. Laparoscopic ligation of spermatic vein for high varicocele or internal varicocele repair.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 55550?
The work RVU for CPT 55550 is 7.02. This code is primarily used by Urology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 55550 used?
Minimally invasive laparoscopic repair of high varicocele or internal varicocele by vein ligation.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
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.