56420 incision and drainage bartholins gland abscess
Also known as: Bartholin gland abscess drainage, Bartholin duct cyst drainage
Incision and drainage of an abscess of the Bartholin gland. The Bartholin glands are mucus-secreting glands located at the vulvar vestibule.
In Plain Language
Drainage of infected Bartholin gland; Draining blocked gland infection
Clinical Context
Used for acute Bartholin gland abscesses, typically resulting from infection of a cyst. Common causative organisms include Staphylococcus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Provides immediate pain relief.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.40 |
| Total RVU | 1.40 |
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 1.40, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 56420?
CPT 56420 (incision and drainage bartholins gland abscess) is a Surgery code. Incision and drainage of an abscess of the Bartholin gland. The Bartholin glands are mucus-secreting glands located at the vulvar vestibule.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 56420?
The work RVU for CPT 56420 is 1.40. This code is primarily used by Gynecology, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 56420 used?
Used for acute Bartholin gland abscesses, typically resulting from infection of a cyst. Common causative organisms include Staphylococcus and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Provides immediate pain relief.
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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.