20220 Bone biopsy trocar/needle superficial
Also known as: bone biopsy needle, cortical bone biopsy
Bone biopsy using needle or trocar technique to obtain superficial or cortical bone sample for histologic diagnosis. This minimally invasive method evaluates bone pathology.
In Plain Language
taking a needle sample of bone
Clinical Context
Used to diagnose metabolic bone diseases, infections, malignancies, or other bone pathology when clinical features and imaging suggest bone-level pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.61 |
| Total RVU | 1.61 |
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 1.61, this code ranks in the 10th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20220?
CPT 20220 (Bone biopsy trocar/needle superficial) is a Surgery code. Bone biopsy using needle or trocar technique to obtain superficial or cortical bone sample for histologic diagnosis. This minimally invasive method evaluates bone pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20220?
The work RVU for CPT 20220 is 1.61. This code is primarily used by Pathology, Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology.
When is CPT 20220 used?
Used to diagnose metabolic bone diseases, infections, malignancies, or other bone pathology when clinical features and imaging suggest bone-level 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.