20200 Muscle biopsy superficial
Also known as: superficial muscle biopsy, muscle biopsy superficial
Needle or open biopsy of superficial muscle tissue to obtain tissue sample for histologic diagnosis. This procedure evaluates inflammatory, dystrophic, or other muscular disorders.
In Plain Language
taking a small sample of muscle under the skin
Clinical Context
Used to diagnose myopathies, inflammatory muscle diseases, dystrophies, or metabolic muscle disorders when clinical features and testing suggest muscular pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.42 |
| Total RVU | 1.42 |
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 1.42, this code ranks in the 8th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.6x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20200?
CPT 20200 (Muscle biopsy superficial) is a Surgery code. Needle or open biopsy of superficial muscle tissue to obtain tissue sample for histologic diagnosis. This procedure evaluates inflammatory, dystrophic, or other muscular disorders.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20200?
The work RVU for CPT 20200 is 1.42. This code is primarily used by Neurology, Pathology.
When is CPT 20200 used?
Used to diagnose myopathies, inflammatory muscle diseases, dystrophies, or metabolic muscle disorders when clinical features and testing suggest muscular pathology.
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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.