19357 Tissue xpndr plmt brst rcnstj
Also known as: tissue expander placement, tissue expansion, breast reconstruction flap
Surgical placement of a tissue expander beneath the mastectomy skin flaps to create an implant pocket and expansion chamber. This prepares the breast pocket for subsequent implant insertion.
In Plain Language
placing a balloon-like device to stretch skin for reconstruction
Clinical Context
First stage of tissue expansion-based breast reconstruction. The expander is gradually filled over weeks to months to stretch tissue before implant placement.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 14.47 |
| Total RVU | 14.47 |
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 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 14.47, this code ranks in the 72nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 19357?
CPT 19357 (Tissue xpndr plmt brst rcnstj) is a Surgery code. Surgical placement of a tissue expander beneath the mastectomy skin flaps to create an implant pocket and expansion chamber. This prepares the breast pocket for subsequent implant insertion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 19357?
The work RVU for CPT 19357 is 14.47. This code is primarily used by Plastic Surgery, Surgical Oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 19357 used?
First stage of tissue expansion-based breast reconstruction. The expander is gradually filled over weeks to months to stretch tissue before implant placement.
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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.