Which procedure is coded with the CPT code 55840?

The CPT code 55840 specifically represents a "Radical retropubic prostatectomy, including lymphadenectomy." This procedure involves the surgical removal of the prostate gland and surrounding tissues through an incision made in the lower abdomen. Additionally, it includes the removal of nearby lymph nodes for examination to check for cancer spread, which is encapsulated in the term "lymphadenectomy."

This code is appropriately assigned to this specific type of prostatectomy because it incorporates both the radical removal of prostate tissue and the surgical assessment of lymph nodes, critical for staging and determining the extent of cancer. The emphasis on lymph node biopsy within this code highlights the importance of assessing potential metastases in prostate cancer treatment.

The other options describe forms of prostatectomy that either do not involve a retropubic approach or do not include the lymph node biopsy component, making them incompatible with the specifics of code 55840. Understanding the nuances of each type of procedure is essential for accurate coding and, consequently, proper documentation in medical records.