19296 Place po breast catheter for radiation
Also known as: breast brachytherapy catheter, percutaneous catheter placement
Percutaneous placement of a radioactive catheter or applicator into the breast for administration of radiation therapy (brachytherapy). This allows targeted delivery of radiation to reduce recurrence after breast surgery.
In Plain Language
placing a tiny tube for radiation treatment in the breast
Clinical Context
Used for accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) after breast-conserving surgery. Alternative to whole breast external beam radiation, reducing treatment duration and toxicity to surrounding tissues.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.54 |
| Total RVU | 3.54 |
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 3.54, this code ranks in the 25th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 19296?
CPT 19296 (Place po breast catheter for radiation) is a Surgery code. Percutaneous placement of a radioactive catheter or applicator into the breast for administration of radiation therapy (brachytherapy). This allows targeted delivery of radiation to reduce recurrence after breast surgery.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 19296?
The work RVU for CPT 19296 is 3.54. This code is primarily used by Radiation Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery.
When is CPT 19296 used?
Used for accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) after breast-conserving surgery. Alternative to whole breast external beam radiation, reducing treatment duration and toxicity to surrounding tissues.
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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.