88331 Path consltj surgical 1 blk 1spc
Also known as: surgical consult 1 block 1 site, intraoperative consultation
Pathology consultation during surgery for one tissue block from one specimen site, including rapid assessment and diagnostic report.
In Plain Language
quick tissue check during surgery; rapid pathology assessment
Clinical Context
Intraoperative frozen section or touch preparation for single tissue block to guide surgical management decisions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.16 |
| Total RVU | 1.16 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
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
With a work RVU of 1.16, this code ranks in the 81st percentile among Pathology & Lab codes — 1.7x the median (0.68). The highest wRVU in this category is 2.78.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 88331?
CPT 88331 (Path consltj surgical 1 blk 1spc) is a Pathology & Lab code. Pathology consultation during surgery for one tissue block from one specimen site, including rapid assessment and diagnostic report.
Who uses CPT code 88331?
CPT 88331 is used by Surgical Pathology. Intraoperative frozen section or touch preparation for single tissue block to guide surgical management decisions.
When is CPT 88331 used?
Intraoperative frozen section or touch preparation for single tissue block to guide surgical management decisions.
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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.