Radiology · CMS status A
49083
Paracentesis with imaging guidance
Paracentesis (abdominal) with imaging guidance, including ultrasound or fluoroscopy. CMS 2026 global wRVU 1.66, total RVU approximately 2.99, Medicare global allowable approximately $100. The bundled code for image-guided paracentesis; replaces separately billing 49082 (no imaging) plus 76942 (US guidance).
Work RVU
1.66
2026 Medicare pays
$99.87
National GPCI · non-facility · CF $33.4009
RVU anatomyWork 1.66 + Practice 1.20 + Malpractice 0.13 = 2.99 total
Work (your effort)Practice expenseMalpractice
Billing guidance for 49083 is locked
- When to use it: the exact clinical situations that support billing 49083
- Documentation checklist: the 5 elements your note needs before submitting
- Common pitfalls: the 5 mistakes that get 49083 downcoded or denied
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Common modifiers
26
Common ICD-10 pairings
R18.8K70.31K76.9C78.6
Payer notes
Medicare and commercial payers cover 49083 routinely for appropriate indications. Inpatient hospital codes follow DRG bundling. Outpatient IR procedures may require prior authorization for elective large-volume taps in stable patients. Document the indication, fluid analysis ordered, and post-procedure status.
Pairs well with
Educational reference, not billing or legal advice. Verify against your payer contracts and your compliance team before submission.