20982 Ablate bone tumor(s) percutaneous
Also known as: percutaneous bone ablation, tumor ablation
Ablation of bone tumor or tumors, percutaneous technique.
In Plain Language
heat or cold destruction of bone tumor; needle-based tumor destruction
Clinical Context
Used for benign or metastatic bone tumors via percutaneous approach; can use radiofrequency, microwave, or cryoablation.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.84 |
| Total RVU | 6.84 |
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 6.84, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 20982?
CPT 20982 (Ablate bone tumor(s) percutaneous) is a Surgery code. Ablation of bone tumor or tumors, percutaneous technique.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 20982?
The work RVU for CPT 20982 is 6.84. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Interventional Radiology, Oncology.
When is CPT 20982 used?
Used for benign or metastatic bone tumors via percutaneous approach; can use radiofrequency, microwave, or cryoablation.
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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.