CPT® Code 53447

Removal and replacement of inflatable urethral/bladder neck sphincter including pump, reservoir, and cuff at the same operative session

The procedure described by CPT® Code 53447 involves the removal and replacement of an inflatable urethral or bladder neck sphincter (AUS) during the same surgical session. The AUS is a medical device designed to help control urinary incontinence by mimicking the function of a healthy sphincter. In this procedure, the existing AUS is extracted through the same incision sites that were used for its initial implantation. This is crucial for minimizing additional trauma to the surrounding tissues. Following the removal, a new AUS system is implanted, which includes a flexible cuff that is positioned around the bladder neck or urethra, a reservoir filled with liquid, and a pump that is placed in the scrotum for male patients or in the labia majora for female patients. The entire system is then tested to ensure proper functionality before the surgical incisions are closed. This procedure is particularly relevant for patients who require a replacement due to device malfunction or other complications, ensuring that they can regain control over their urinary function effectively.