19000 Puncture aspiration cyst breast
Also known as: breast cyst aspiration, breast FNA
Percutaneous needle aspiration and cytology of breast cyst to evaluate for malignancy and provide therapeutic drainage.
In Plain Language
Needle biopsy of breast lump; Breast cyst fluid removal
Clinical Context
Performed for evaluation of palpable breast cyst and symptom relief. May be done under ultrasound guidance. Used diagnostically and therapeutically.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 0.82 |
| Total RVU | 0.82 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 0.82, this code ranks in the 3rd percentile among Surgery codes — 9.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 19000?
CPT 19000 (Puncture aspiration cyst breast) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous needle aspiration and cytology of breast cyst to evaluate for malignancy and provide therapeutic drainage.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 19000?
The work RVU for CPT 19000 is 0.82. This code is primarily used by General Surgery, Breast Surgery, Surgical Oncology.
When is CPT 19000 used?
Performed for evaluation of palpable breast cyst and symptom relief. May be done under ultrasound guidance. Used diagnostically and therapeutically.
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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.