57020 Colpocentesis separate procedure
Also known as: Cul-de-sac aspiration, Colpocentesis
Colpocentesis as separate procedure. Needle aspiration of fluid from the vaginal cul-de-sac for diagnostic purposes.
In Plain Language
Needle drainage of fluid from behind uterus
Clinical Context
Used to diagnose hemoperitoneum, infected fluid, or other pathology. Rarely performed today due to ultrasound availability.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.46 |
| Total RVU | 1.46 |
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 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.46, this code ranks in the 9th 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 57020?
CPT 57020 (Colpocentesis separate procedure) is a Surgery code. Colpocentesis as separate procedure. Needle aspiration of fluid from the vaginal cul-de-sac for diagnostic purposes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 57020?
The work RVU for CPT 57020 is 1.46. This code is primarily used by Gynecology, Emergency Medicine.
When is CPT 57020 used?
Used to diagnose hemoperitoneum, infected fluid, or other pathology. Rarely performed today due to ultrasound availability.
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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.