CPT® Code 47125

The procedure described by CPT® Code 47125 refers to a total left lobectomy, which is a surgical operation involving the complete resection of the left lobe of the liver. This procedure is typically indicated for various hepatic conditions, including tumors, cirrhosis, or other liver diseases that necessitate the removal of the left lobe to prevent further complications or to treat existing pathologies. The surgery is performed through an incision that is strategically made in the right subcostal region, which may extend into the left subcostal area or even cranially over the xiphoid process, allowing adequate access to the liver. During the operation, the surgeon transects the right rectus muscle and splits the oblique muscles to gain entry to the abdominal cavity. The medial portion of the left rectus muscle is also transected to facilitate the procedure. The ligaments associated with the left lobe are severed, enabling mobilization of the lobe for resection. The surgical team carefully dissects the inferior vena cava and the hepatic veins located above the liver, ensuring that all necessary vascular structures are addressed. The left hepatic artery is divided, and the left branch of the portal vein is identified and ligated to prevent blood flow to the lobe being removed. The left lobe is then retracted to the right side, and the lesser omentum is transected to further expose the area. The ligamentum venosum is identified and divided, followed by the ligation of the middle and left hepatic veins. To facilitate the resection, vessels supplying the right liver are temporarily occluded with clamps. The liver is divided by marking the transection line with electrocautery, followed by the division of the parenchyma using scissors and blunt clamp dissection. After the left lobe is excised, the vascular and biliary structures are ligated to ensure hemostasis and prevent bile leaks. The blood supply to the right lobe is restored, and the surgical team examines the raw surface of the right lobe for any signs of bleeding or bile leaks, addressing any issues through coagulation or suture ligation. Finally, the wound is irrigated, drains are placed as necessary, and the incision is meticulously closed with sutures to promote healing.