19297 Place breast catheter for radiation
Also known as: additional brachytherapy catheter, extra catheter placement
Placement of additional radioactive catheters or applicators into the breast for administration of brachytherapy. This represents add-on work for multiple catheter placements during the same procedure.
In Plain Language
placing additional radiation tubes in the breast
Clinical Context
Used when multiple catheters are required to achieve optimal dose coverage for brachytherapy. Improves dose conformality and treatment efficacy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.68 |
| Total RVU | 1.68 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.68, this code ranks in the 11th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 19297?
CPT 19297 (Place breast catheter for radiation) is a Surgery code. Placement of additional radioactive catheters or applicators into the breast for administration of brachytherapy. This represents add-on work for multiple catheter placements during the same procedure.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 19297?
The work RVU for CPT 19297 is 1.68. This code is primarily used by Radiation Oncology, Surgical Oncology, Breast Surgery.
When is CPT 19297 used?
Used when multiple catheters are required to achieve optimal dose coverage for brachytherapy. Improves dose conformality and treatment efficacy.
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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.