How Much Does Abdominal Paracentesis with Imaging Cost?
Also known as: Abd paracentesis w/imaging (CPT 49083)
Image-guided percutaneous drainage of an abscess or fluid collection.
The total estimated cost of Abdominal Paracentesis with Imaging (CPT 49083) is $312 to $586, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $93.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Abdominal Paracentesis with Imaging
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Using CT or ultrasound guidance, the radiologist inserts a needle or catheter through the skin to drain an abscess or fluid collection. Local anesthesia and sedation are used.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Intra-abdominal abscess, pelvic abscess, post-surgical fluid collection, empyema
How to Prepare
Fast for 6-8 hours. Blood work may be needed before. A drain tube may be left in place for continued drainage.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Abd paracentesis w/imaging
How to Reduce Your Cost for Abd paracentesis w/imaging
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
For this procedure, the office rate ($284) differs from the facility rate ($93). Ask if it can be done in an office setting.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (8.51) x CF ($33.40) = $284
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Abd paracentesis w/imaging cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Abd paracentesis w/imaging is $93. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Abd paracentesis w/imaging cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Abd paracentesis w/imaging can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Abd paracentesis w/imaging?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Abd paracentesis w/imaging when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.