56405 incision and drainage vulva/perineal abscess
Also known as: Vulvar abscess drainage, Perineal abscess incision
Incision and drainage of an abscess on the vulva or perineal area. Provides immediate relief and source control of infection.
In Plain Language
Drainage of infected bump on vulva; Draining infection around genitals
Clinical Context
Used for acute vulvar abscesses, often from blocked Bartholin glands, hair follicles, or epidermal inclusion cysts. Provides immediate symptom relief and allows culture and sensitivity testing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.45 |
| Total RVU | 1.45 |
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 1.45, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 56405?
CPT 56405 (incision and drainage vulva/perineal abscess) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of an abscess on the vulva or perineal area. Provides immediate relief and source control of infection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 56405?
The work RVU for CPT 56405 is 1.45. This code is primarily used by Gynecology, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 56405 used?
Used for acute vulvar abscesses, often from blocked Bartholin glands, hair follicles, or epidermal inclusion cysts. Provides immediate symptom relief and allows culture and sensitivity testing.
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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.