88040 Forensic autopsy (necropsy)
Also known as: forensic autopsy
Forensic pathological examination and dissection of autopsy specimen.
In Plain Language
medicolegal autopsy examination
Clinical Context
Autopsy performed for medicolegal purposes in cases of trauma, poisoning, or suspected foul play.
RVU Information
CPT 88040 does not have a physician work RVU assigned by CMS. Reimbursement for this code is determined by payer-specific fee schedules.
Billing & Documentation
Lab and pathology codes require an order from the treating provider with clinical indication. For molecular pathology and genetic testing, document the specific analytes tested and clinical rationale.
How This Code Compares
This code has a work RVU of 0.00, meaning it does not have a physician work component assigned by CMS. In the Pathology & Lab category, 94% of codes share this characteristic.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 88040?
CPT 88040 (Forensic autopsy (necropsy)) is a Pathology & Lab code. Forensic pathological examination and dissection of autopsy specimen.
Who uses CPT code 88040?
CPT 88040 is used by forensic pathology, medicolegal. Autopsy performed for medicolegal purposes in cases of trauma, poisoning, or suspected foul play.
When is CPT 88040 used?
Autopsy performed for medicolegal purposes in cases of trauma, poisoning, or suspected foul play.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.