CPT® Code 58550

The procedure described by CPT® Code 58550 refers to a laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH) performed on a uterus that weighs 250 grams or less. This surgical technique combines the benefits of laparoscopic surgery with traditional vaginal hysterectomy methods. During the procedure, the physician makes a small incision just below the umbilicus to insert a trocar, which allows for the introduction of a laparoscope. This instrument provides a visual inspection of the abdominal cavity and the uterus, facilitating the surgical process. The procedure may involve the removal of the uterus alone or, in some cases, the removal of additional structures such as the fallopian tubes and/or ovaries, although the primary focus of this code is on the hysterectomy itself. The use of bipolar coagulation is critical for controlling bleeding throughout the surgery, ensuring a safer and more efficient operation. The detailed steps of the procedure involve careful dissection and manipulation of various ligaments and tissues, ultimately leading to the removal of the uterus through the vaginal canal. This minimally invasive approach is designed to reduce recovery time and postoperative complications compared to traditional open hysterectomy techniques.