38220 Diagnosis bone marrow aspirations
Also known as: Bone marrow aspiration, BMA, Marrow aspiration
Diagnostic bone marrow aspiration, a needle aspiration procedure to obtain bone marrow samples for microscopic examination and diagnosis.
In Plain Language
Bone marrow needle biopsy; Getting bone marrow sample
Clinical Context
Used to diagnose hematologic malignancies, infections, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and other bone marrow disorders.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.17 |
| Total RVU | 1.17 |
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 1.17, this code ranks in the 6th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 38220?
CPT 38220 (Diagnosis bone marrow aspirations) is a Surgery code. Diagnostic bone marrow aspiration, a needle aspiration procedure to obtain bone marrow samples for microscopic examination and diagnosis.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 38220?
The work RVU for CPT 38220 is 1.17. This code is primarily used by Hematology/Oncology, Internal Medicine, Pathology.
When is CPT 38220 used?
Used to diagnose hematologic malignancies, infections, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and other bone marrow disorders.
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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.