CPT® Code 59856

Induced abortion, by 1 or more vaginal suppositories (eg, prostaglandin) with or without cervical dilation (eg, laminaria), including hospital admission and visits, delivery of fetus and secundines; with dilation and curettage and/or evacuation

The CPT® Code 59856 refers to a medical procedure known as an induced abortion, which is performed using one or more vaginal suppositories, such as prostaglandins. This procedure may or may not involve cervical dilation, which can be facilitated by devices like laminaria. The process encompasses several critical components, including the admission of the patient to a hospital, multiple physician visits, and the delivery of both the fetus and the associated tissues, known as secundines. Following the delivery, the procedure may also include dilation and curettage (D&C) or evacuation to ensure that any remaining fetal tissue is removed from the uterus. The use of vaginal suppositories is a method to induce contractions and facilitate the termination of the pregnancy, while cervical dilation aids in the process by allowing easier access for the drug administration and subsequent delivery. This comprehensive approach ensures that the procedure is conducted safely and effectively, addressing both the medical and procedural needs of the patient.