CPT code 45550 represents an open abdominal rectopexy with repair of rectal prolapse using sutures and mesh combined with resection of a redundant sigmoid colon. This operative code captures a definitive surgical approach to symptomatic rectal prolapse and associated redundant sigmoid that often requires hospital-based operative care. Nationally, procedures for rectal prolapse are significant for surgical coloproctology caseloads and can affect inpatient surgical utilization, perioperative resource allocation, and postoperative quality measures.

Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. The publication provides clinicians, coding professionals, and policy analysts with clinical context for the procedure, coding specifics for billing and claims submission, and a synthesis of benchmarking and policy considerations where available. Readers will find: a clinical summary of the operative service captured by 45550; typical sites of service and expected care setting; common billing modifiers and claims considerations; and guidance on areas where payer policies and coverage rules commonly influence authorization and reimbursement. Data not available in the input is noted where applicable.