Correct coding for peritoneal drain with CT guidance

Q.

I know the CPT^® code for peritoneal drain with CT guidance is 49406 but what do I use when the drain is left in place?

A.

The drainage codes 49405, 49406, and 49407 all require that the drainage catheter/tube be left in place when the patient leaves the room. Those codes are for longer-term drainage rather than aspiration. If the catheter/tube is not left in place, report either unlisted code 49999 with the appropriate guidance code (77012 for CT guidance) or 10160 with the appropriate guidance code (77012).