CPT® Code 47741

A Roux-en-Y cholecystoenterostomy, commonly referred to as a biliary bypass procedure, is a surgical intervention designed to alleviate biliary obstruction. This procedure is particularly indicated when there is a blockage in the bile ducts that prevents bile from flowing from the gallbladder into the small intestine. The term "Roux-en-Y" refers to the specific technique used to create a new pathway for bile drainage. In this procedure, an abdominal incision is made in the midline to access the gallbladder and a segment of the small intestine, specifically the jejunum. The gallbladder is carefully dissected to separate it from surrounding tissues. The jejunum is then mobilized and divided to create a Roux-en-Y limb, which is a Y-shaped configuration that facilitates the rerouting of bile. The distal end of the divided jejunum is anastomosed, or surgically connected, to the gallbladder, allowing bile to drain directly into the small intestine. In the case of CPT® Code 47741, the procedure is further enhanced by the inclusion of a gastroenterostomy, which involves creating a connection between the stomach and the small intestine. This additional step is performed to ensure that the digestive process remains efficient, particularly when the normal passage of food is disrupted. The surgical technique involves precise incisions and suturing to ensure proper healing and functionality of the newly created pathways for both bile and food.