CPT® Code 44901

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The procedure described by CPT® Code 44901 refers to the percutaneous incision and drainage of an appendiceal abscess. The appendix is a small, tubular structure that extends from the cecum, and an appendiceal abscess occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed and ruptures, leading to the formation of a pocket of pus. This condition is often a complication of acute appendicitis. In contrast to the open incision and drainage procedure outlined in CPT® Code 44900, which involves a surgical incision in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen, the percutaneous approach utilizes imaging guidance to access the abscess. This minimally invasive technique involves inserting a needle into the abscess pocket to aspirate pus, confirming the presence of infection. Following aspiration, a larger drainage catheter is placed to facilitate the continuous drainage of the abscess, allowing for effective management of the infection while minimizing recovery time and surgical trauma. The catheter may be adjusted within the abscess cavity to ensure thorough drainage, and it is typically left in place for several days to promote healing and collapse of the abscess cavity.