59160 D & c after delivery
Also known as: postpartum D&C, postpartum dilation and curettage
Dilation and curettage performed after delivery of a fetus and placenta to remove retained placental tissue or membranes.
In Plain Language
cleaning the uterus after delivery
Clinical Context
Indicated for retained placental fragments, abnormal placentation, or excessive bleeding after vaginal or cesarean delivery.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.69 |
| Total RVU | 2.69 |
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 2.69, this code ranks in the 19th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 59160?
CPT 59160 (D & c after delivery) is a Surgery code. Dilation and curettage performed after delivery of a fetus and placenta to remove retained placental tissue or membranes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 59160?
The work RVU for CPT 59160 is 2.69. This code is primarily used by Obstetrics and Gynecology. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 59160 used?
Indicated for retained placental fragments, abnormal placentation, or excessive bleeding after vaginal or cesarean delivery.
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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.