CPT® Code 49606

The procedure described by CPT® Code 49606 involves the surgical repair of a significant abdominal wall defect known as an omphalocele or gastroschisis. An omphalocele is characterized by a large umbilical ring defect where internal organs, including the bowel, are located outside the abdominal cavity, covered by a thin membrane. In contrast, gastroschisis refers to a defect located to the side of the umbilicus, where the bowel and other organs are exposed without a protective membrane. This congenital condition necessitates surgical intervention shortly after birth to prevent complications such as infection or damage to the exposed organs. The repair can be performed using two primary techniques: one that closes the defect without the use of a prosthesis and another that involves the construction of a prosthetic silo or pouch to gradually accommodate the internal organs back into the abdominal cavity. The first technique involves manually stretching the abdominal wall to allow for the repositioning of the organs, while the second technique utilizes a prosthetic device to facilitate a gradual reduction of the defect over time. Once the organs are successfully contained within the abdomen, a follow-up procedure is conducted to remove the prosthesis and finalize the closure of the abdominal wall, ensuring that the skin is properly sutured to protect the internal structures.