19081 Biopsy breast first lesion strtctc
Also known as: stereotactic breast biopsy, stereo biopsy first
Percutaneous needle or core biopsy of breast lesion under stereotactic guidance for first lesion with tissue diagnosis.
In Plain Language
Guided needle biopsy of breast lump; Stereotactic breast sampling
Clinical Context
Performed for suspicious breast abnormalities detected on mammography. Stereotactic guidance provides precise lesion sampling. First lesion in session.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.21 |
| Total RVU | 3.21 |
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 3.21, this code ranks in the 22nd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 19081?
CPT 19081 (Biopsy breast first lesion strtctc) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous needle or core biopsy of breast lesion under stereotactic guidance for first lesion with tissue diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 19081?
The work RVU for CPT 19081 is 3.21. This code is primarily used by Breast Surgery, Surgical Oncology, Radiology.
When is CPT 19081 used?
Performed for suspicious breast abnormalities detected on mammography. Stereotactic guidance provides precise lesion sampling. First lesion in session.
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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.